Marcus Lee Noble

A York man, Marcus Lee Noble, has been sentenced to more than five years in prison for committing sex offences against a teenage girl. The case, investigated by North Yorkshire Police, highlights the exploitation of a vulnerable underage victim and the defendant's attempts to obstruct justice.

The offences took place when Noble, then aged 23, sexually abused a teenage girl. He was found guilty of three counts of causing a child to engage in sexual activity, as determined by a jury at York Crown Court on 23 May 2025. Additionally, Noble was convicted of one charge of failing to disclose a password or PIN under Section 49 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, after refusing to provide access to his mobile phone, where incriminating evidence was anticipated.

Throughout the investigation, Noble denied all allegations, forcing the young victim to endure the stress of a full Crown Court trial. Despite his denials, the jury convicted him, bringing some measure of justice. The sentencing occurred on 11 July 2025 at York Crown Court, following the thorough investigation led by Detective Constable Marcus Furneaux-Harris of York and Selby CID.

Detective Constable Furneaux-Harris commented on the case, stating: “The victim in this case has shown maturity and mental strength beyond her years when telling police what had happened to her, in how she has coped with the length of the investigation, and especially when giving her evidence at court.” He further emphasised: “No teenage girl should ever have to go through this, especially at the hands of a grown man who has lied from the beginning of the investigation. Noble took full advantage of her age and abused her for his own sexual gratification.”

The conviction also serves as a deterrent, with the detective noting: “The conviction for failing to provide the passcode to his mobile phone should send a clear message to anyone who tries to frustrate a police investigation.” This case underscores the commitment of North Yorkshire Police to pursuing justice in sexual abuse matters, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.