Three men from Bolton have been sentenced today (Monday, 28 April 2025) for a series of serious sexual offences against girls under the age of 16, following a major investigation into a grooming gang operating in Blackrod.
The men were convicted of multiple offences including rape, sexual activity with children, and the making of indecent images.
Sentences Handed Down
- Ashley Darbyshire (01/01/1997), of Bolton, was found guilty of:
- Three counts of rape
- 12 counts of sexual activity with a child
- Three counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity
- One count of making indecent photographs of a child
He was sentenced to 15 years in prison, with a minimum term of 10 years to be served before eligibility for parole.
- Brandon Harwood (20/09/1999), also of Bolton, was convicted of:
- One count of rape
- One count of attempted oral rape
- One count of sexual activity with a child under 16
He was sentenced to 10 years in prison, required to serve two-thirds of the sentence.
Harwood has been placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life. - Ross Corley (14/01/1995) was convicted of:
- Two counts of sexual activity with a child
Corley was sentenced to 28 months in prison and given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
He will also be on the Sex Offenders’ Register for 10 years.
Another man involved, whose name has not been disclosed, was convicted of two counts of sexual offences and is awaiting further sentencing.
Police Statement
A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said:
“Today’s sentences reflect the severity of the crimes committed against vulnerable young victims.
We commend the bravery of the survivors for coming forward and supporting the investigation.
We are committed to pursuing those who exploit and abuse children and ensuring they are brought to justice.
The case was part of a larger investigation into historical child sexual exploitation in the Blackrod area, and officers have stressed the ongoing need for victims and survivors to report abuse, no matter how much time has passed.
Support Available
Support services are available for anyone affected by the crimes. Victims are encouraged to contact specialist charities or police to seek help.
