Mark Whitworth

Mark Whitworth, alongside Karl Sharples, faced justice at Manchester Crown Court for committing a horrific range of sex offences against five children, including grooming, rape, and severe sexual abuse targeting victims as young as seven. The proceedings underscored the long-term exploitation and the profound trauma inflicted on the young victims.

Whitworth, 57, from Atherton, was convicted on an extensive list of charges: three counts of rape, six counts of raping a child under 13, eight counts of sexual assault, 11 counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, six counts of assault by penetration, four counts of assault by penetration of a child under 13, and four counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. He was also found guilty of four counts of causing a child to watch a sexual act and four counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child. These offences revealed a pattern of predatory behaviour that exploited children's vulnerability without remorse.

CPS North West specialist crown prosecutor Stacey Gosling labelled Whitworth a 'sexual predator and a danger to children,' emphasising how he 'preyed on the innocence of children, with no care for the profound effect their abuse would have on the victims who still suffer today.' She highlighted the dedication of the Crown Prosecution Service to prosecuting such exploiters and thanked the victims for their bravery in aiding the case. Greater Manchester Police's investigation was crucial in uncovering the full extent of the abuse.

In sentencing, Judge Kate Cornell imposed a life imprisonment term on Whitworth, with a minimum of 21 years to be served before parole eligibility, reflecting the gravity and breadth of his crimes. A sexual harm prevention order was also issued against him. The sentencing took place this week at Manchester Crown Court, providing some measure of closure for the victims while affirming the court's commitment to child protection.