Paedophile who sexually assaulted East Lancs boys jailed

In September 2020 police received information that Joanna Evans, who uses different male and female names and identities, had sexually assaulted three victims.

The youngest victim was just eight years old at the time he was sexually assaulted. All three were under the age of 13.

The offences took place during or before 2020.

Evans, 40, last of Castle Street, Swansea, was arrested the day after the offending was reported.

They were later charged with assault by penetration of a child and sexual assault by touching of a child.

Joanna Evans (Image: Lancashire Police)

Evans was due to stand trial earlier this month but did not attend court.

The trial ran in Evans’ absence at Burnley Crown Court and they were found guilty of all charges.

On Friday, May 17, Evans was sentenced to 16 years immediate custody and a one-year extended licence period.

DC Hannah Brown, from the East Child Protection Team, said: “Evans is a manipulative individual who sexually assaulted the three young victims for sexual gratification. The significant sentence handed down by the court reflects the seriousness of the offending Evans engaged in.

“I want to praise the victims in this case who showed immense bravery, having to re-live their ordeal while giving evidence.

“I hope the outcome of this case will encourage other victims to come forward, knowing they will be believed, listened to and that we will do everything in our power to put the perpetrator before the courts.”