Barrow Man Given Indefinite Hospital Order After Sexual Assaults on Two Girls

A man has been given an indefinite hospital order after admitting sexual offences against two girls in Barrow-in-Furness.

Benjamin Scowcroft, 41, of no fixed address, was sentenced at Preston Crown Court on Monday, October 26, 2026, after pleading guilty to two offences.

The court heard that Scowcroft visited a shop in Barrow on February 3, 2024, where he sexually assaulted a teenage girl. He returned to the same premises the following day and sexually assaulted a second girl who was under the age of 13.

Police arrested Scowcroft during the investigation. Officers later recovered a receipt from his home address that placed him at the shop on February 4, 2024.

Scowcroft initially denied the offences but subsequently changed his plea to guilty in court.

In addition to the indefinite hospital order, the court imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that will remain in force until 2033. He will also be subject to a seven-year notification requirement.

Detective Constable Alex Brown said the offences had been treated with the utmost seriousness and investigated thoroughly. The officer encouraged anyone who had experienced similar offences to come forward.

Cumbria Police reiterated its commitment to investigating sexual offences and bringing offenders before the courts.

Anyone affected by sexual violence can seek support through specialist services. Information about available assistance is also provided through Cumbria Police's victim support resources.

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