Pensioner jailed for 'harrowing' sexual crimes

Charles David Pratt was found guilty following a trial at Bradford Crown Court

A 71-year-old man has been jailed for 27 years after he was found guilty of committing “truly harrowing” sexual crimes over several decades.

The 19 charges included multiple counts of rape, other serious sex offences and one count of attempted indecent assault on a girl aged under 16.

Charles David Pratt, of Keighley Road, Skipton, was found guilty on 5 August following a trial at Bradford Crown Court and sentenced on Thursday. He has been placed on the sex offenders register for life.

Lead investigator Det Con Neil Borchardt praised the “immense bravery” of the three victims - two women and a girl - who had endured "extreme levels of trauma".

He said: “The offences carried out by Pratt over a series of decades are truly harrowing.

"He used violence and threats, often while under the influence of alcohol, to carry out these attacks for his own disturbed sexual gratification.”

The victims, whose identities are protected by law, have received professional care and support, he said.

He encouraged other victims of sexual assault to come forward, adding: “This case demonstrates once again that it is never too late to make a report to the police or to get help. Please do not suffer in silence. We are here for you.”

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