Two Brothers Jailed for Preying on Vulnerable Girls
John Bancroft, 68, and his brother Graham Manicom, 62, have been exposed as predators who exploited vulnerable teenage girls for sex. The shocking abuse took place in hotel rooms and on the internet, where they targeted victims as young as 13.
Horrific Crimes Unveiled at Snaresbrook Crown Court
Bancroft was found guilty of multiple sex offences on 13 December after a seven-week trial, including four counts of rape, grooming, paying for sex with a child, causing sexual exploitation, and attempting sexual communication with minors. Earlier, he pleaded guilty to assaulting a child during sex and 14 counts of possessing and sharing indecent images.
His brother, Manicom, pleaded guilty to two counts of paying for the sexual services of a child and admitted joining Bancroft for group sex on two occasions.
Deceptive Online Tactics to Groom Teenage Girls
Bancroft used dating apps like MyLol to create fake ‘sugar daddy’ profiles, luring teenage girls from 13 to 18 years old between 2016 and 2017. He lied about his age, pretending to be younger, and manipulated victims by offering money, gifts, and empty promises of mentorship and support.
He bombarded victims with up to 100 WhatsApp messages a day, pushing them into depraved sexual acts, including group sex and sado-masochism. The brothers shuttled the girls around hotels, remote locations, and Bancroft’s home for abuse.
Police Investigation Led by Brave Victim’s Family
The twins’ crimes came to light after one victim’s sister grew suspicious and alerted the police. This triggered a thorough probe by the Metropolitan Police’s Modern Slavery and Child Exploitation team.
“Bancroft and Manicom are sick individuals who targeted vulnerable girls for their own twisted gratification,” said Detective Sergeant Kelly Ryan.
“They exploited girls who were distant from family, financially struggling or previously abused. These girls showed immense bravery throughout the case.”
“I urge anyone with similar experiences to come forward. We will take all reports seriously and offer support.”
Bancroft and Manicom were remanded in custody and will be sentenced at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 14 February 2022.
