BLACKPOOL ELVIS IMPERSONATOR CLAYTON SANDLIN SENTENCED FOR RAPE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT ON TEENAGE GIRL

In a case that has shocked the seaside town of Blackpool, Clayton Sandlin, also known by the alias Clayton Mark, has been convicted and sentenced for heinous sexual offenses committed against a teenage girl. The 62-year-old, who gained local notoriety as an Elvis Presley impersonator performing at various events along the Blackpool coast, was found guilty of raping a 15-year-old girl and committing multiple indecent assaults.

The incident dates back to 2018 when Lancashire police received a formal complaint from a woman alleging that Sandlin had sexually assaulted her in 2002, a time when she was a schoolgirl. The complainant’s account detailed a series of disturbing incidents that had remained hidden for years, only coming to light after she decided to report the matter to authorities.

At the time of the alleged assaults, Sandlin was actively performing as an Elvis tribute artist at a show held on Blackpool’s Central Pier, a popular tourist destination along the Queens Promenade. His role as a performer had made him a familiar face in the local entertainment scene, which added a layer of shock to the allegations.

Following the complaint, Lancashire Constabulary initiated an investigation. Sandlin was voluntarily interviewed by police, during which he denied the allegations. Despite his denials, the evidence collected led to charges being brought against him, including one count of rape and two counts of indecent assault.

Sandlin maintained his innocence throughout the legal process, pleading not guilty to all charges. However, after a lengthy trial, the jury found him guilty of the offences. The court proceedings culminated in a sentencing hearing at Preston Crown Court, where Sandlin was handed an eight-year prison term. Additionally, he was subjected to a lifetime sex offenders notification requirement and a lifetime restraining order to prevent any contact with the victim or other potential victims.

The case has garnered significant attention in Blackpool, highlighting concerns about the safety of young people and the importance of vigilance in the entertainment industry. Sandlin’s reputation as a performer did not shield him from justice, and his conviction serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by predatory individuals hiding behind seemingly benign personas.