A Wythenshawe paedophile who “preyed upon an innocent little girl” has died in prison. Kenneth Barnes was jailed for nine years in 2018 for sexually abusing a young girl in the 1990s.
The 85-year-old died in HMP Manchester, also known as Strangeways, in March last year. Kenneth Barnes, from Wythenshawe, was aged 79 when he was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court for his crimes, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The court heard he told the girl she had been naughty before assaulting her. He was found guilty of seven counts of sexual assault.
Following the sentencing at the time, PC Cheryl Williams, from GMP’s Public Protection Investigation Unit, said Kenneth Barnes continued to deny all the charges.
In a statement, she said, “Kenneth Barnes preyed upon an innocent little girl and forced her to do things that have affected her into adulthood.
“Police launched an investigation, and during a search of his house, photos of the victim as a little girl were found in Kenneth Barnes’ possession. Kenneth Barnes continues to deny all charges, but was found guilty by unanimous decision.
“I would like to commend the victim for her bravery during the police investigation and trial. I hope today’s result helps her move on from the horrors she was put through as a child.”
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