Raymond Douglas Mackley

A Northallerton man, Raymond Douglas Mackley, aged 81, from The Green, Romanby, has been sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment following his conviction on 16 counts of child sexual offences. The case, handled by North Yorkshire Police and prosecuted at Teesside Crown Court, highlights the long-term impact of historical sexual abuse on victims.

Mackley's offending occurred over a period of several years, involving multiple victims who were children at the time. He was found guilty by a jury in September 2023 of eight counts of sexual activity with a child, six counts of sexual assault against a child under 13, and two counts of causing a child to engage in sexual activity. The abuse came to light when one victim disclosed to a family member that she had been abused by Mackley as a child and had kept it secret for many years. This disclosure prompted another victim to come forward, revealing similar experiences of abuse.

As a trusted adult in the victims' lives, Mackley exploited his position for his own sexual gratification. Despite maintaining his innocence throughout the investigation and showing no remorse, the evidence provided by the brave victims led to his conviction. The offences were investigated by Detective Constable Gillian Gowling of Northallerton CID, who described the crimes as a 'blatant and sickening series of offences' against the victims over several years.

On 6 November 2023, at Teesside Crown Court, Mackley was sentenced to 12 years' custody. In addition to the imprisonment, he was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life and was issued with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for life. The court recognised the lasting impact of the abuse on the victims, who had carried the burden of secrecy for years, initially fearing they would not be believed.

North Yorkshire Police emphasised the importance of reporting such crimes, noting that the victims' courage in coming forward ensured justice was served. The case underscores the commitment of law enforcement to thoroughly investigate historical sexual abuse reports.