Halifax man jailed for historical sexual abuse of three young boys

Halifax man Keith Jackson, who suffers from heart problems, was given just six months to live back in 2011 and the prognosis led to court proceedings against him at the time being halted.

But the case, which involved the abuse of three young boys more than 30 years ago, was restarted after another potential victim came forward.

Following a trial at Bradford Crown Court Jackson was eventually found guilty by the jury of a series of sex abuse offences against the initial three complainants.

Today Judge Neil Davey QC branded Jackson “a serial sex offender” after hearing how he had been jailed twice in 1990s for similar offending against young boys.

None of Jackson’s three victims can be identified for legal reasons, but the court heard how he gave them treats such a records, cigarettes and alcohol to make them trust him.

“You did, in my judgement, everything you could by way of apparent kindness and bestowing treats to make them like you and be all the more compliant when you eventually committed sexual offences against them,” said Judge Davey.

One of Jackson’s victims screamed out in pain as he was subjected to a serious sexual assault and prosecutor Gerald Hendron said the lives of all of the complainants had been blighted by the defendant’s crimes.

Judge Davey said Jackson was “cynical, devious and manipulative” in laying the ground for his offending and said the crimes had caused substantial harm to his victims.

Jackson, of Mayfield Gardens, Halifax, had denied any wrong-doing, but following his trial he was found guilty of charges including buggery, indecent assault and gross indecency.

Barrister Soheil Khan, for Jackson, said his client was reaching the end of his life.

“He says he expects to die in prison,” he added.

Jackson, who looks frail and walks with the aid of a stick, had a pacemaker fitted last year and Mr Khan said he was also awaiting further surgery.

“He is someone who is prone to bladder infections and has difficulty remaining mobile,” said Mr Khan.

“He knows he will now pay the price for what he did all those years ago.”

As a result of his conviction Jackson will have to register as a sex offender with the police for the remainder of his life.