Man Arrested Following Historic Sexual Abuse Probe at Greater Manchester School

By Mark Langshaw
Click Manchester
December 05, 2012

http://www.click-manchester.com/news/local-news/1217986-man-arrested-following-historic-sexual-abuse-probe-at-greater-manchester-school.html


Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have arrested a man from Trafford following reports of historic sexual abuse.

The 63-year-old suspect was taken into custody on suspicion of indecent assault and possession of indecent images relating to an incident in the early 1980s involving a 17-year-old pupil from St Ambrose RC College in Altrincham.

He has been bailed until 12th March next year, pending further inquiries.

GMP subsequently received reports of sexual abuse at the school dating back to the 1960s, so of which referred to incidents that took place on the premises, while others that took place off site are said to have involved members of staff.

Detective Inspector Jed Pidd, from Trafford's Public Protection Investigation Unit (PPIU), said: "First and foremost I want to stress that we are looking at historical incidents.

"The safeguarding of pupils is without doubt a top priority for the school and I don't want current pupils or their families to be unduly concerned.

"That said, this is an extremely serious and upsetting incident for the victims in this case.

"As part of this investigation we have received further reports of potential historical incidents.

"Unfortunately some of these have come to us third hand and we really need to speak to anyone who was a pupil at the school who may have information to assist our enquiry.

"I want to reassure anyone who might want to report any incidents or offences that we treat all allegations of sexual abuse extremely seriously and we would encourage you to contact your local officers in Trafford."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 7555, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.