CLAIRE AND CRAIG MORES SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN MANCHESTER
A husband and wife duo, Claire Moores and Craig Moores, have been handed significant prison terms after being convicted of multiple child sex offences that spanned several years in Manchester.The couple, both residents of the Stockport area, received sentences totaling 28 years collectively, reflecting the gravity and seriousness of their crimes.
On Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court, Claire Moores, born on March 15, 1977, was sentenced to a term of 13 years in prison.
Her husband, Craig Moores, born on July 25, 1971, was sentenced to 15 years.
Their convictions stem from a series of offences committed against three young victims over a period roughly between 2002 and 2008.
The allegations were initially brought to police attention in May 2019, prompting an investigation into non-recent sexual abuse claims involving two girls from the Stockport area.
The victims, who remain unnamed due to legal protections, reported that they were subjected to sexual exploitation and abuse by the couple during their childhood.
The court heard disturbing details that two of the victims had been given substances prior to experiencing sexual abuse by the husband and wife.
The third victim was reportedly exposed to illegal drugs and was present during instances of sexual activity.
The couple was prosecuted following their arrest in August 2020.
During the trial, they were found guilty of a total of fifteen charges.
Craig Moores faced accusations of four counts of indecent assault on a girl under 18, two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a girl under 18, and one count of indecency with a child under 18 through penetrative acts.
Claire Moores was convicted of three counts of indecent assault on the same age group.
In addition to these charges, both were jointly convicted of two counts of engaging in sexual activity in front of a child, one count of sexual activity with a minor, and one count of indecent assault against a girl under the age of 18.
The prosecution also presented a charge of cruelty to a person under 16, which was part of the case against them.
Furthermore, they faced allegations of encouraging a boy under 15 to partake in sexual activities and of administering substances with the intent to stupefy, thereby enabling the commission of sexual acts.
However, these last two charges did not result in convictions.
The court's proceedings emphasized the exploitation and abuse inflicted on the victims, with both offenders playing active roles in the crimes.
Their actions have caused significant trauma to those involved, and the lengthy prison sentences reflect the severity with which the judicial system views such offences.
Authorities and advocates continue to emphasize the importance of reporting suspected abuse and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable, especially in cases involving vulnerable minors.
The conviction and sentencing of Claire and Craig Moores serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against child exploitation in Manchester and beyond.
