The Nightmare Unveiled: Non-Recent Abuse Comes to Light
The five-day trial at Grimsby Crown Court that concluded on Friday, November 28, 2025, brought a unanimous verdict that delivered a profound sense of justice for two courageous young women. The jury found Alan Wigglesworth, 45, of Winn Street, Scunthorpe, guilty of a terrifying seven counts of non-recent sexual offences against the two teenage girls. The details of the case reveal a prolonged period of manipulation and exploitation, where the defendant used alcohol and threats to abuse the victims, turning a time of supposed innocence into a harrowing chapter of fear and betrayal.
The sheer volume and gravity of the charges—including two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, two counts of sexual assault, causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, assault by penetration, and inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity—underscore the calculated and devastating nature of Wigglesworth’s actions. This was not a single, isolated event, but a sustained campaign of abuse that cast a long, dark shadow over the lives of his victims. The guilty verdict is a direct validation of the victims’ pain and truth, marking the crucial first step toward long-delayed accountability.
The Courage of the Survivors: Validation from a Unanimous Jury
The journey to the Grimsby Crown Court trial was a testament to the immense bravery and resilience of the two teenage survivors. To come forward, relive the traumatic events of the past, and endure the intensity of a five-day trial requires unimaginable courage. The unanimous decision by the jury—a clear signal of certainty in their findings—is a powerful statement that their voices were heard, their truth was accepted, and their abuser will be held accountable. This verdict provides a crucial validation for the survivors, confirming that the abuse was real and the fault lay solely with Alan Wigglesworth.
The fact that the offences were non-recent often complicates the judicial process, but the dedication of the police and the clarity of the evidence presented ensured that justice was served. Wigglesworth has been remanded into custody and is scheduled to return to Grimsby Crown Court on Friday, February 6, 2026, for sentencing. While the conclusion of the trial brings an end to the legal battle, the true impact of this verdict lies in the psychological relief it offers the survivors, allowing them to finally begin the long, difficult process of healing and reclaiming their lives.
Restoring the Trust: Scunthorpe Looks Towards Healing
The conviction of a local resident for such heinous crimes shakes the trust within any community. This case serves as a stark reminder of the hidden nature of non-recent sexual offences and the urgent need for support mechanisms that empower victims to come forward, regardless of the time elapsed. The actions of Alan Wigglesworth caused catastrophic damage, not only to the victims but also to the perceived safety of the community.
The successful prosecution sends a strong, clear message that authorities are committed to pursuing justice for survivors of historical abuse. The focus now shifts from the courtroom proceedings to the continued healing of the two young women whose lives were so tragically affected. The strength they demonstrated in court will undoubtedly inspire others who are still carrying the burden of past abuse. As Scunthorpe awaits the sentencing in February 2026, the community’s collective hope is centered on the survivors’ recovery and the assurance that justice, though delayed, will always be fought for.