ADAM MCCARLEY SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS FOR GROOMING TEEN GIRLS IN BLACKLEY

In October 2018, a disturbing case involving Adam John McCarley, an air cadet instructor from Blackley, came to light through a court ruling that reaffirmed his lengthy prison sentence. McCarley's actions, which included grooming and engaging in sexual relationships with two underage girls, have shocked the local community and highlighted the serious nature of his crimes.

According to the judgment delivered by Mr. Justice Julian Knowles, McCarley was fully aware of the gravity of his misconduct when he met the two teenage victims while working with the cadets in Greater Manchester. The judge emphasized that McCarley 'knew exactly what he was doing' during the course of his criminal activities, dismissing claims that his 12-year sentence was excessive. The court's decision underscores the severity of his offenses and the importance of holding offenders accountable.

Details of the case reveal that McCarley, who resides on Grange Drive in Blackley, would often compliment the appearance of the girls before offering them lifts home after cadet training sessions. Despite being in a relationship with a partner and having a young son, McCarley crossed boundaries by inviting one of the girls to his home. There, they watched a film together before engaging in sexual intercourse. This relationship persisted secretly for two years, during which McCarley proposed marriage, asked her to move in with him, and even bought her a mobile phone.

Concerns from the girl’s family eventually prompted police involvement. However, initially, no further action was taken. Subsequently, McCarley began messaging the second victim, leading to a sexual relationship that lasted for seven months. The second girl’s parents later discovered explicit messages from McCarley on her phone, which caused further distress and concern.

Both victims have spoken about the lasting psychological scars inflicted by McCarley's actions. The second girl revealed that her experiences led her to self-harm, illustrating the profound and enduring impact of his misconduct. McCarley had previously admitted to 16 counts of sexual activity with a child and two counts of causing a child to engage in sexual activity.

In June, Judge Martin Savill sentenced McCarley to 12 years in prison. This sentence was recently upheld by three senior judges, including Mr. Justice Julian Knowles, who dismissed the appeal against the sentence. The court confirmed that the punishment was appropriate given the circumstances.

During the appeal hearing at London's Court of Appeal, the judges highlighted the grooming process, planning, deception, and the significant age difference between McCarley and his victims. The judge pointed out that McCarley, as an adult man with a partner and a child, engaged in a series of calculated actions that exploited the vulnerabilities of the teenage girls. The court acknowledged that the sentence, though severe, was justified considering the seriousness of the offenses.

As a result of the conviction, McCarley will remain on the sex offenders register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of grooming and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable young people from exploitation and abuse in the community of Blackley and beyond.