GARY MOTTERSHEAD SENTENCED FOR ABUSE IN SALE: A DISTURBING CASE OF CHILD SEXUAL ASSAULT

In a case that has shocked the community of Sale, a man named Gary Mottershead has been convicted of heinous crimes involving the sexual abuse of a young boy during the 1980s. The incident dates back to when Mottershead was only 15 years old, and the victim was a mere six years old at the time. The disturbing details of the case emerged during a court hearing, revealing a pattern of coercion, threats, and manipulation that spanned over a period of time.

According to court records, the victim, now aged 43, did not initially recognize Mottershead when they were both placed in the same prison cell in 2017. It was only after the victim saw Mottershead that he became distressed and immediately informed a prison guard about his suspicions. This recognition prompted further investigation, which uncovered the horrifying truth of the abuse that had taken place decades earlier.

The court heard that Mottershead had begun abusing the young boy after being asked to babysit him. The abuse involved the use of alcohol, specifically cider, and the manipulation of the child's trust through threats and secrecy. The victim was coerced into sexual acts, with Mottershead threatening both him and his sister to maintain silence. The abuse was not a one-time event but a recurring pattern, with Mottershead exploiting his position of trust and the vulnerability of the young boy.

Mottershead faced multiple charges, including one count of rape and six counts of sexual assault on a male under the age of 13. The court proceedings revealed that these assaults occurred when Mottershead himself was only 15 years old, highlighting the disturbing nature of his actions at such a young age. The defendant had manipulated and threatened both the victim and his sister, causing long-lasting trauma.

The victim, who came from a family that was considered respectable, concealed the abuse for many years, likely out of fear and shame. However, the emotional scars from the abuse manifested in later life, leading to issues such as substance abuse and criminal behavior. The judge overseeing the case emphasized the severity of the breach of trust and the extensive emotional harm inflicted upon the victim. The repeated nature of the abuse and its impact on the victim's mental health were central to the sentencing decision.

Detective Paul Walls, who was involved in the investigation, described Mottershead's behavior as a disgrace. He also praised the bravery of the victim for coming forward and helping authorities bring the perpetrator to justice. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need to protect vulnerable children from exploitation and abuse, regardless of the passage of time.