Fifty year old man Brian Jackson of Hall Lane, Windhill, Shipley was yesterday (11 Jan 12) sentenced to life imprisonment at Bradford Crown Court after being found guilty of charges relating to a series of sexual, domestic and violence offence against six victims over three decades.
These offences came to light in October 2010 when a woman reported a serious incident that had taken place some 13 years earlier. Detective Constable Sean Donoghue took her allegations seriously and began research which established a link to a strikingly similar incident
Two years earlier than the one reported. Further investigation identified Brian Jackson as a person of interest. What followed was a protracted and complex investigation into Jackson. Women who had been involved in his life were identified and traced, going as far back as 1978.
The investigation posed many difficulties for this officer, not least the lack of police records held for the 1970’s and 1980’s. DC Donoghue and officers on Operation Pinjarra used excellent investigative skills coupled with a determination to seek the truth resulted in a trial for 12 serious offences, not only against several women but also against a man.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Lisa Griffin said:
Jackson subjected his victims to a catalogue of violence, serious sexual and domestic related offences spanning some considerable time. Through a combination of threats and humiliation tactics he took away their freedom, attempting to control every element of their lives.
Following a detailed and thorough investigation by West Yorkshire Police, however; his activities were uncovered and he has now faced the justice he deserves.
It has taken a great deal of courage for his victims to give their evidence and I would like to commend them for their brave efforts. Their evidence, given at Bradford Crown Court was so harrowing at times, that many people in the courtroom were reduced to tears.
Hopefully the outcome will provide some comfort and closure to each of them.
The public of West Yorkshire should have every confidence in our ability to support vulnerable victims and bring dangerous offenders to justice.
Following the case, one of his victims provided this statement:
It is 20 years since I was physically and sexually abused by Brian Jackson and although outwardly I managed to pick up the pieces and get on with my life, inwardly this man has haunted me and has still caused me many sleepless nights.
I knew of people who had suffered sexual abuse around the same time as me and I heard of the appalling way they were treated by the authorities and this was the reason that I did not report my horrific experiences to the Police.
I eventually reported it to the Police in 2011 and was dealt with in a very gentle, caring and compassionate, but professional way.
In speaking about my very personal experiences, I was put at ease and made to realise that I was being believed.
The different ways of presenting my evidence was outlined to me and I found it very comforting to know to that if I wanted, I could give evidence whilst screened from my attacker.
I was aware that I could have my evidence video recorded, but I chose to face my attacker and give my evidence in open court.
I am full of praise for the officers and staff of West Yorkshire Police who have worked very hard to secure evidence from my, keeping me fully informed of the progress throughout and bringing it to a successful conclusion.
I would like to encourage anyone who is, or has gone through a similar ordeal to take courage from me and report your concerns to the Police, knowing that they do take domestic violence and sexual assaults very seriously and treat the victims with respect.
The services for the victim have improved tremendously since the 80’s and 90’s. I could not have wished for any better support from the Police.
