Karl Sharples

Karl Sharples

38, Male Custodial - 12y

Radcliffe, Greater Manchester

Offender ID: f848a290-86c4-4089-9887-1ed2365979b9

Offence Summary

Karl Sharples, a 38-year-old man from Radcliffe, groomed, sexually assaulted, and raped children as young as seven, leading to his conviction on multiple sexual offence counts and a 12-year custodial sentence at Manchester Crown Court.

Full Description

Two sexual predators, Karl Sharples and Mark Whitworth, were convicted and sentenced at Manchester Crown Court for a series of horrific sex offences against five young victims, some as young as seven years old. The case, investigated by Greater Manchester Police, highlighted the grooming, rape, and abuse perpetrated by the offenders over an extended period.

Karl Sharples, 38, from Radcliffe, was found guilty of rape, two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, seven counts of sexual assault, and two counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child. His actions involved preying on the innocence of vulnerable children, causing profound and lasting harm. The court heard details of how Sharples groomed and exploited his victims, demonstrating a clear danger to children.

Stacey Gosling, specialist crown prosecutor for CPS North West, described Sharples as a 'sexual predator and a danger to children' who showed no regard for the devastating impact of his abuse. She commended the victims for their 'incredible bravery and tenacity' in coming forward, which enabled the prosecution to secure justice. The case was brought to light through the victims' courage and the diligent work of Greater Manchester Police.

Judge Kate Cornell sentenced Sharples to 12 years' imprisonment, recognising the severity of his crimes. Additionally, he was made subject to a sexual harm prevention order to protect the public from further offences. The sentencing occurred this week at Manchester Crown Court, marking a significant step in holding Sharples accountable for his predatory behaviour.

Location

City: Radcliffe

County: Greater Manchester

Case Details

Police Force: Greater Manchester Police

Name heritage (predicted origin)

Country: United Kingdom

Confidence: 95%

Special Thanks

A huge thank you to Greater Manchester Police for their tireless dedication in bringing this offender to justice. Your commitment and hard work truly help keep our communities safe, and we are deeply grateful.

Source: leighjournal.co.uk

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