A Paedophile, Peter James Wilson (22/06/1957) of Bowling Green Row, Atherton, was sentenced to 27 years in prison today (Monday, 16 September 2024).
Peter James Wilson admitted guilt to the sexual assault of a child under 13 by touching, the sexual assault of a child under 13 through penetration, and the creation of an indecent photograph of a kid. A jury convicted him of 23 further sexual offences involving both children and adults, including indecent assault and rape.
Peter James Wilson will be permanently included on the sex offenders’ register and is subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
Peter James Wilson perpetrated abuse against seven victims for a period exceeding 51 years, commencing in 1972.
Starting in 1972, when Peter James Wilson was just 14 years old, he began a horrifying pattern of abusive behaviour towards young people that persisted for decades.
Peter James Wilson subjected multiple victims, regardless of age or gender, to deeply traumatising experiences, ranging from inappropriate advances to devastating acts of coercion and even rape.
As the years passed, Peter James Wilson’s predatory behaviour continued to escalate as he manipulated and took advantage of his victims, shattering their innocence and trust.
The year 2023 marked a turning point, as Peter James Wilson was arrested at his residence on suspicion of sexual assault involving a child following an incredibly brave disclosure from one of his victims.
This led to a thorough search of his property, revealing shocking evidence of his sinister activities. Among the items seized were two mobile phone devices, a disc enclosed within an envelope, and a small camera containing an SD card.
Disturbingly, police also recovered a hidden camera. Analysis of the camera and mobile phones unearthed videos depicting the cruel exploitation of a female child aged approximately six to eight years old. These videos fell under the category of first-generation, type A indecent images of children, capturing deeply distressing and sadistic acts.
Upon gathering this information, people were interviewed, and evidence was taken, which led to the discovery of further victims of Peter James Wilson’s horrific abuse, and Operation Bunker was initiated to manage all 28 counts of Wilson’s abuse and his crimes.
Detective Sergeant Joanne Sweeney of GMP’s Wigan District said: “Firstly, I would like to thank all the victims and their loved ones for their co-operation and support throughout this challenging investigation. We commend every one of them for their bravery and strength, which has brought Peter James Wilson to justice after years of abuse.
“Throughout the investigation, we have ensured those involved receive and will continue to receive the best support from our officers and support services to ensure they can rebuild and cope with the trauma they have been subjected to because of Peter James Wilson’s horrific crimes.
“We know that the sentencing will never erase what they experienced because of Wilson, but we hope that it signifies the beginning of the rest of their lives, allowing them to start to heal and come to terms with what’s happened.
“I would like to stress, no matter when the abuse took place, or you think you may not be believed. Greater Manchester Police will believe you; we will listen to you and investigate every report to ensure every offender receives justice for their crimes.
“I would also like to acknowledge the hard work that has taken place by DC McNeil and DC Henderson, who have worked tirelessly to ensure the victims of these crimes have been supported while securing a positive outcome following their bravery.”
If you are concerned about a child’s welfare, you can contact Greater Manchester Police via gmp.police.uk or by dialling 101. You can also share information anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers – on 0800 555 111.
If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.
- Saint Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester, provides a comprehensive and coordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support, and counselling services for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.
- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk
- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma-informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.