Teesside pensioner jailed for abducting and raping child

Peter Wrigglesworth was arrested on November 6 last year after he met with a child, Teesside Crown Court was told.

The 67-year-old had taken the child to his home outside of the Cleveland area, where he subjected her to rape and sexual assault by the pensioner.

Wrigglesworth was jailed yesterday (Friday, April 19) after he was convicted of rape, child abduction and sexual offences.

Detective Inspector Louise Sproson of Hartlepool CID said: “The substantial sentence reflects the abhorrent crimes committed by this man.

“The victim has been traumatised by these events, yet her bravery in helping police with the investigation has ensured that he cannot be a danger to anyone else.

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“Wrigglesworth is a danger to children, and it is good to know that he will now be locked up for a significant length of time.

“The victim and her family are relieved that he has been handed a considerable sentence and have expressed thanks to the Cleveland Police officers who helped to secure his conviction.

“Hopefully they can now begin the long process of rebuilding their lives.”