Former Council Association Chief Jailed for Historic Rape of Child, a founding figure of the Leicestershire and Rutland Association of Local Councils (LRALC) and a former employee of Rutland County Council.

Former Council Association Chief Jailed for Historic Rape of Child, a founding figure of the Leicestershire and Rutland Association of Local Councils (LRALC) and a former employee of Rutland County Council.

Former Council Association Chief Jailed for Historic Rape of Child

By Local Democracy Reporter Tuesday, February 3, 2026

A former high-profile local government official, who spent decades at the heart of Leicestershire and Rutland’s council sector, has been jailed for seven years for the "detestable" rape and indecent assault of a young girl in the 1980s.

Jacob (Jake) Atkinson, 55, was sentenced at Preston Crown Court after a jury found him guilty of a catalogue of sexual offences. The court heard that the abuse began in Rossendale when the victim was just nine years old and only ceased when Atkinson left the area to attend university.

For forty years, Jacob Atkinson’s crimes remained hidden as he built a prominent career in local government. He was a founding figure of the Leicestershire and Rutland Association of Local Councils (LRALC) and a former employee of Rutland County Council.

The truth only emerged when the victim finally felt able to disclose the abuse first to her husband, then to the Truth Project, and finally to the police.

Dave Hindle, of Lancashire Police's major crime review team, praised the victim’s courage:

"Atkinson targeted his vulnerable victim for his own sordid sexual interests. Once he got to his 50s, he probably thought he had gotten away with his detestable crimes. It’s thanks to the victim’s bravery that a light has been shone on who Atkinson truly is."

It has now been revealed that Atkinson, of Birkdale Road, Anstey, resigned from his position as Chief Executive of the LRALC in May 2025. Crucially, he did so without disclosing to his employers that he had been arrested or charged with the historic offences.

The LRALC confirmed they only became aware of the charges after his departure and were prevented from speaking out until today due to legal reporting restrictions.

In a statement issued to member councils this week, Cllr Tony Hirons, Chairman of the LRALC, condemned the crimes:

"These crimes, which we condemn in the strongest possible terms, pre-date his employment... and have absolutely no connection to our organisation or its work," Cllr Hirons said. "Our thoughts are foremost with those harmed by these crimes. We stand with all survivors of sexual violence."

The association sought to reassure the public that they remain committed to safeguarding and that the staff team has worked to ensure "continuity and stability" since Atkinson’s sudden exit.

Handing down a seven-year prison sentence, the Judge noted that the term reflected the sentencing powers available at the time the offences were committed in the 1980s. In addition to his custodial sentence, Atkinson has been ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life.

Leicestershire Police say: You can report a sexual assault or rape that happened at any time to us, even if it was months, years or decades ago. We take every report seriously, no matter how much time has passed.

We understand that there are lots of reasons why someone might not feel ready to tell anyone about what has happened right away. We also know it's common for survivors to take time to realise that what has happened is a crime.

To contact Leicestershire Police regarding historic child abuse (non-emergency), call 101, report online via their website, or visit a police station.