In 2019, the Offender Database recorded that Andrew Austin, then 51, of Sumner Road, Irlam o’th Heights, Salford, was jailed for 27 years for “robbing his four young victims of their childhoods.” On appearing at Manchester Crown Court for sentencing, it was reported that Austin committed a string of serious sexual offences, including four counts of rape and six counts of indecent assault. The court reported that the “vile” crimes only came to light when a victim and a charity worker bravely contacted the police.
The investigation established that Austin sexually abused and raped four children over several years in Salford, Greater Manchester. Greater Manchester Police reported that although Austin initially protested his innocence, he “came clean” and pleaded guilty before the case went to trial. The prosecution reported the “monstrous” impact on the survivors: one victim turned to drugs and alcohol to block out the abuse, while another suffered a “constant sense of shame” and hollowing psychological effects.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The court reported that Austin showed “no remorse” for the crimes committed against one of his victims and presented an ongoing risk to children. Manchester Crown Court heard how the abuse left the survivors feeling unable to live fulfilled lives, with one victim struggling for years before feeling strong enough to speak out. The prosecution reported that Austin’s late admission of guilt at least spared the victims the ordeal of a trial in Manchester.
Judge Richard Mansell QC noted that the effect on the victims had been “considerable” and that Austin’s actions were “cruel and despicable.” For his actions in Salford, Greater Manchester, Austin was sentenced to 27 years in prison. The judge noted that Austin must serve at least half of this term in custody and will only be released when the Parole Board deems him safe to return to the community.
Sentence and Statutory Requirements
For his crimes in England, Andrew Austin was handed:
- Custodial Sentence: 27 years in prison (2019).
- Parole Eligibility: Must serve at least 13.5 years before consideration for release.
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements were activated for life.
- Judicial Oversight: Sentenced at Manchester Crown Court following an investigation by Greater Manchester Police.
- Criminal Record: Four counts of rape, six counts of indecent assault, and multiple counts of indecency with a child.
- Origin: Sumner Road, Irlam o’th Heights, Salford.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Austin is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) at the highest level of oversight by Greater Manchester Police and the prison estate. Due to the “despicable” nature of the rapes and assaults against four children in Salford, his management is subject to intensive scrutiny by the Public Protection Unit.
As a member of the Sex Offenders Register, Austin must comply with notification requirements regarding his identity and residence for the remainder of his life. Authorities state that his history of “robbing” multiple children of their childhoods necessitates permanent and stringent monitoring of his conduct. Any further sexual misconduct or breach of his life-long registration requirements in Salford, Manchester, or elsewhere will result in immediate arrest and a return to the court system for further incarceration.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.