BEN CLARKE CAUGHT IN ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE WITH PICTURES OF YOUNG GIRLS AT GORTON TESCO

In June 2012, a disturbing incident unfolded at a Tesco supermarket located on Hyde Road in Gorton, Manchester, involving a man named Ben Clarke. The incident came to light after a young boy, only six years old, noticed a peculiar hole in the dividing wall of a women’s restroom cubicle. The boy promptly informed his mother, who then reported the matter to the supermarket staff.

Upon receiving the report, a cleaner attempted to investigate the situation but was unable to get any response from inside the cubicle. Concerned, a security guard was called to the scene. The guard managed to look over the top of the cubicle door and saw Clarke, who was subsequently detained until police officers arrived.

During questioning, Clarke, aged 22 and residing on Union Road in Ashton-under-Lyne, claimed that he had entered the women’s toilet because the men’s facilities were full. However, the evidence against him was substantial. Police found two chisels in a bin within the cubicle, which had been used by Clarke to gouge a hole in the partition.

Further investigation revealed that Clarke’s mobile phone contained ten indecent images of young girls, which were separate from the incident involving the hole in the cubicle. The images depicted minors in sexually explicit contexts, raising serious concerns about his intentions and actions.

At Manchester Magistrates Court, Lindsay Willis, prosecuting, detailed the evidence, emphasizing the severity of the case. Clarke was charged with attempted voyeurism and possession of indecent images. The court also heard that Clarke admitted to these charges.

Gina Clayton, representing Clarke, expressed his remorse and explained that he was suffering from depression and recognized that he had a significant problem. She described him as ‘deeply embarrassed’ by his actions.

District Judge Jonathon Taaffe addressed the court, stating, “These are deeply worrying offences involving a real risk to children. I had considered sending you straight to prison. My primary duty is to protect the public, particularly young and vulnerable children.”

Clarke was sentenced to be registered as a sex offender for five years and was ordered to attend a sex offenders treatment program. Additionally, he was required to pay £85 in prosecution costs. The judge acknowledged Clarke’s remorse but emphasized the gravity of his offences, which were committed for sexual gratification, underscoring the importance of safeguarding children from such threats.