Colne Horror: Dylan Sherratt Jailed Nearly 17 Years for Rape of 12-Year-Old
Dylan Sherratt, 23, has been slammed with a staggering 16 years and 10 months behind bars for grooming and raping a 12-year-old girl in Colne, Lancashire. Burnley Crown Court did not hold back, branding him “dangerous” as his vile crimes came to light.
Twisted Grooming and Sinister Assaults
- Sherratt began targeting his victim in August 2023, shamelessly demanding explicit photos despite knowing her age.
- He saved her contact as “mine” and bombarded her with graphic messages.
- CCTV caught him meeting the girl in September, concealing his identity with a balaclava.
- He launched two terrifying attacks: one in a wooded area, another behind a laundrette.
Swift Police Action Uncovers Sickening Evidence
The case exploded after a friend alerted a school safeguarding officer on 12 September 2023. Sherratt was arrested but refused to say a word during questioning.
Officers uncovered his sick obsession, including messages ordering the girl to lie about her age. Confronted with overwhelming proof, Sherratt admitted to rape, sexual assault, sexual communication with a child, and making indecent images.
Judge Brands Sherratt “Dangerous” as Heavy Sentence Drops
Judge Daniel Prowse labelled Sherratt “dangerous” and handed down a brutal 10-year prison term, plus almost 7 years on extended licence. He must also comply with an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and remain on the sex offenders register for life.
“Since the incidents I struggle to control my emotions. I cry all the time… I often get flashbacks… I have nightmares twice a week.” – Victim’s heartbreaking court statement
DC Sarah Jones, of the East Child Protection Unit, slammed Sherratt as a “dangerous and manipulative individual” and praised the victim’s bravery in facing her trauma head-on.
