Statement from Tony Lloyd following conviction of five men for sexually exploiting a young girl in Rochdale

Commenting on the conviction of five men for sexually exploiting a young girl in Rochdale and the failings of an initial investigation by Greater Manchester Police, Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “This is another sorry tale of a vulnerable individual being let down and a catalogue of failures by different agencies including the police.

“These failures have brought about significant changes in the way GMP investigate these crimes and support victims. Key to this has been a new understanding by different agencies that only by working together are we able to effectively prosecute perpetrators and protect vulnerable people. I’ve made sure that there are extra officers who are dedicated to this work.

“I believe these steps have made a difference and current investigations are now conducted to make sure that the mistakes of the past are not repeated.

“I recognise the bravery of the victim of these crimes. It is our collective duty to make sure they are not let down in the future.”

The victim, now aged 20, gave evidence against the defendants in two trials. All five men will be sentenced on 20 December.