Care worker sexually assaulted dementia patient

David Shorrock was caught by a colleague and CCTV captured 11 seconds of the incident, police said

A care worker has been jailed for a "despicable" sexual assault of a vulnerable woman.

David Shorrock, 53, attacked his victim who was unable to speak and had advanced signs of dementia while he worked at a residential home in Hyndburn, Lancashire Police said.

He was caught in the act by a colleague and CCTV from outside the room captured 11 seconds of the incident in July 2023.

Shorrock, of Greenhill, Great Harwood, who pleaded not guilty but was convicted after a trial at Preston Crown Court, was jailed for nine months.

The incident was reported to police and Shorrock was arrested the same day.

He was later charged with an offence under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, namely a care worker engaging in sexual activity with mentally disordered female.

Shorrock was also ordered to sign the sex offenders' register for life.

Det Con Liam Jarman said: "Shorrock abused his trusted position in the most serious and despicable way for his own perverted sexual interests.

"He targeted a woman who he knew was vulnerable and would not be able to defend herself against his offending."

He added: "Thankfully he was interrupted by a colleague who quickly raised the alarm."