PSNI welcome jailing of Maghera pensioner for sexually abusing 19 children

William Patterson was sentenced to 22 years relating to sexual abuse offences involving children. He will be placed on the Sex Offenders Register and subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO).

Patterson was convicted of 84 offences involving 19 children, carried out over a 10 year period.

Detective Chief Inspector Kerry Brennan said: “Our Public Protection Branch specialist detectives are trained to investigate this type of crime and we will continue to empower victims to come forward and educate adults on how to spot the signs of abuse.

“Our thoughts today, are with the young victims that this man preyed over for many years and their families. No child should ever have to suffer this type of horrific abuse.

“We want to thank them for their bravery in coming forward and their families for working with detectives to bring this abuser to justice.

“If you are concerned that a child may be being abused, or you have been the victim of sexual abuse. Please come forward to us by calling 101, or in an emergency call 999. Don’t suffer in silence.”

An NSPCC Northern Ireland spokesperson said: “Patterson ruthlessly exploited his access to young children at his wife’s childminding business in their home, subjecting them to sexual abuse in a place where they should have been protected from harm.

“Sexual abuse can have a devastating effect on the life of a child which can last long into adulthood and it is vital that anyone who has concerns about a child's welfare speaks out so that they can be protected.

“Adults can contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email [email protected]. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111."