Oldham man jailed after investigation into historic child abuse

A 46-year-old man from Oldham has been jailed after an investigation into historic child sexual abuse.  

The prosecution told the court how Mark Jones (pictured), of Glodwick Road, met the victim when she was between 14 and 15 years old.

The victim told police that between May 2006 and May 2007 Jones started abusing her. She recalled how Jones would ply her with alcohol before sexually abusing her on several occasions. Jones went on to groom the victim.

In 2018, the victim came forward and spoke with police and Jones was subsequently arrested. He replied 'no comment' to most questions put to him.

Jones continued to deny engaging in sexual activity with a child but, following a three-day trial, a jury found him guilty of sexual activity with a child.

Yesterday (Thursday), he was sentenced at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court to seven and a half years’ imprisonment.

Detective Constable Clare Harrison, of GMP’s Oldham division, said: "This is an abhorrent case of systemic emotional, sexual and physical abuse, which spanned years. Jones groomed a vulnerable, young girl, offering her security and affection initially, before plying her with alcohol and taking advantage of her. 

"Jones denied the charges, putting the victim through the further trauma of going over the ordeal in court. With support, the victim was empowered to give her evidence and thankfully a jury saw through his lies and he will have to spend the next seven and a half years behind bars.

"His abuse has had an indescribable impact on the victim's life and this is a small step in her journey to rebuilding her life.

"It’s thanks to the inspiring bravery and courage of the young woman that we have been able to secure a conviction and I hope that this result and the fact that Jones will now face time behind bars proves to other victims out there that GMP are committed to protecting our young people and seeking justice – no matter how long has passed. Please, if you are struggling – come forward and get the help and support you deserve." 

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, Greater Manchester Police say they encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

You can call Greater Manchester Police on 101, or alternatively people can refer themselves to St Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0161 276 6515, whether or not you want make a police report.

St Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester provides a comprehensive and coordinated forensic, counselling and medical aftercare service to anyone in Greater Manchester who has experienced rape or sexual assault. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and people can access them via Greater Manchester Police, or as a self-referral.

Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential support service run by women for women and girls who have been raped or sexually abused. The confidential helpline is 0161 273 4500.