BLACKBURN MAN CHRISTOPHER CHARNOCK SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON CHILDREN

In a case that has shocked the community of Blackburn, Christopher Charnock, a 43-year-old resident of Hope Street, was sentenced to over six years in prison for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against young children. The crimes, which spanned a period of four years from 2007 to 2011, involved the sexual assault of three children whose ages ranged from just seven to thirteen at the time of the incidents.

Charnock appeared before Preston Crown Court to face the charges, having previously pleaded guilty to a total of seven counts of sexual assault against children under the age of 13, as well as four counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor. His guilty plea was entered prior to the trial, sparing the victims from the trauma of recounting their experiences in court. The court sentenced him to a term of six years and eight months in prison, and he was also ordered to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. Additionally, Charnock was subjected to an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), which imposes strict restrictions aimed at preventing further offenses.

The investigation into Charnock’s crimes was conducted by Blackburn CID, which uncovered evidence of his abuse. Detective Constable Mick Ingram, speaking on behalf of Blackburn CID, described the crimes as “truly despicable” and directed at “vulnerable and defenceless children.” He emphasized the gravity of the offenses and acknowledged the courage of the victims and their families, who endured significant emotional hardship throughout the legal process. Ingram also expressed hope that the sentence would bring some measure of relief and justice to those affected by Charnock’s actions.

Throughout the police interviews, Charnock refused to admit guilt or provide any explanation for his conduct. His decision to plead guilty before the trial commenced was seen as a way to prevent the victims from having to relive their traumatic experiences in court. The case has left a lasting impact on the Blackburn community, highlighting the importance of vigilance and the need to protect children from such predatory behavior.