JONATHAN MUSANGU'S HORRIFIC CRIMES IN SALFORD QUAYS AND SALFORD REVEALED

In September 2021, a disturbing case unfolded at the Lowry Nightingale Court in Salford Quays, involving the heinous crimes committed by Jonathan Musangu, a former footballer with connections to Rochdale AFC and other clubs. The court heard harrowing details of how Musangu, aged 23 at the time, exploited his position and popularity to prey on vulnerable young girls, some as young as seven, over a span of five years.

Musangu’s actions were described as calculated and predatory, with the court emphasizing that he used his influence within his community and church to gain the trust of his victims. The lengthy trial, held in June and July, culminated in a conviction on multiple counts of sexual abuse, including three counts of raping a child under 13, two counts of sexually assaulting a child under 13, two counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, three counts of sexual activity with a child, and two counts of rape. Additionally, Musangu admitted to inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and possessing extreme pornography.

Following the verdict, Judge John Potter sentenced Musangu to a 24-year prison term, with an extended license period of four years. The judge described Musangu as a 'dangerous offender' who posed a significant risk to the public, especially to children. The sentencing reflected the gravity of his crimes, which involved manipulation, lying, and a blatant disregard for the innocence and safety of his victims.

The court revealed that Musangu’s abuse began when he was between 15 and 16 years old, targeting young girls connected to his church community. The youngest victim, who was unable to be named for legal reasons, testified bravely, recounting how Musangu raped her three times at his home. Her emotional victim impact statement detailed her confusion, anger, and ongoing trauma, describing nights spent crying and feeling haunted by her memories.

Other victims, some as young as seven or eight, were led into toilets under false pretenses, where Musangu committed further acts of sexual assault. One girl described how he instructed her to lower her clothing and put her head on the toilet, while another was manipulated into performing sexual acts with him. A 12-year-old girl was pinned down and raped by Musangu after he lured her upstairs under the guise of sharing a secret. He then threatened to share a photograph of her if she disclosed the assault.

Victims also recounted how Musangu coerced them into sending indecent videos and performing oral sex, often using threats and intimidation. One girl, aged 13, was asked to perform oral sex after refusing to send explicit videos. Another victim, aged 12, was assaulted on the day of her prom when Musangu asked her to massage his leg before forcing her into sexual acts. The court heard that Musangu also engaged in inappropriate online communications, sending and receiving explicit videos with a teenage girl over a three-year period, and attempting to have sex with her while she was underage.

Musangu’s defense attempted to mitigate his actions, with his lawyer acknowledging his awareness of the lengthy sentence he faced and highlighting that some offenses occurred when he was under 18. However, the court was unequivocal in its condemnation, with Judge Potter describing Musangu as a 'predatory sex offender' who exploited his advantages for personal gratification. The judge emphasized that Musangu’s manipulative behavior and arrogance in treating victims as objects demonstrated a profound danger to society.

In a separate incident in July 2021, Musangu was visibly distraught in court after being found guilty of multiple charges. He fell to his knees, sobbing uncontrollably, and had to be physically removed from the courtroom. His emotional breakdown was witnessed by family members, one of whom was seen crying and screaming in shock outside the courtroom. The jury’s verdict included a guilty finding on 11 of 13 charges, with some counts of rape of a child under 13 being upheld by a 10-2 majority, and others acquitted.

Throughout the trial, evidence was presented that Musangu’s victims ranged from as young as seven to 19 years old, with some incidents involving physical assault, threats, and online abuse. The court heard how he targeted victims during church activities, at his home, and in social settings, often under the guise of friendship or mentorship. Despite denying the allegations, Musangu’s actions have left a lasting impact on his victims, many of whom continue to suffer from emotional and psychological trauma.

As the case concludes, Musangu remains on bail, awaiting sentencing scheduled at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court. The court’s decision underscores the severity of his crimes and the ongoing need to protect vulnerable children from predators like him.