A MAN jailed for a series of historic sexual offences on young girls may have left other victims, according to police and one woman who bravely came forward to share her experience.
Alan Shepherd - a photograph of whom has recently been acquired by the Chronicle - was jailed last month for 14 years after being found guilty of a series of historic sexual offences against three women in Barnsley, including rape, which took place in Barnsley between August 1975 and August 1976.
The three women, who would all have been under 16 at the time, came forward in the trial which saw Shepherd, 68, found guilty of one count of rape and 11 counts of indecent assault, at Hull Crown Court.
But one woman, who was raped by Shepherd when she was just 13-years-old after a year of being groomed, told the Chronicle after his sentencing that she had a ‘strong feeling’ that there were other victims.
Debbie Stanfield, 55, bravely waived the anonymity automatically granted to victims in sexual offence cases to appeal for any other victims to come forward, after she learned that Shepherd may have worked with children in Barnsley around the time of her assault.
“I believe there are other people,” said Debbie Stanfield, 55.
“And I don’t want them to suffer like I have, it’s not fair to keep quiet.
“You don’t realise there’s help out there. The police have been fantastic, they were so compassionate.
“It might give me some closure if I’m helping someone else.”
Detective Constable Elinor Duke was investigating officer in the case, and she said South Yorkshire Police also believe there could be other victims.
“I commend Shepherd’s victims for their continued bravery and for the courage shown throughout our investigation,” said DC Duke.
“The conclusion of any legal proceedings can be a difficult and emotional time for victims of sexual abuse and they have conducted themselves admirably.
“It is our belief that there could be other victims out there who are yet to come forward to police.
“I understand that this may seem like a daunting process but please let me reassure any victims or survivors of sexual abuse that our officers will listen, we are here to support you and we will do everything we can to help.
“There are a range of agencies who can also offer support and help throughout this process.
“Please, if you are suffering abuse or have suffered, come forward and talk to someone.”
