MARK ANDERTON SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN HAMPSHIRE
A man from Hampshire, Mark Anderton, has been imprisoned for historic child sex offences.The 28-year-old, a resident of Wickham, appeared today at Southampton Crown Court for sentencing.
In December last year, Anderton pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual activity with a child and one count of sexual assault of a child.
These crimes occurred over a three-year period between 2012 and 2014.
He received a sentence of three years and two months in prison and will be placed on the sex offenders' register for life.
Detective Constable Mark Harris of Operation Amberstone led the investigation and commented: "Anderton's actions have caused unspeakable trauma to the victim, and I hope today's sentencing provides them with some measure of closure, allowing them to start a new chapter knowing that justice has been served." He also praised the victim’s bravery: "I would like to commend them for the incredible courage they have shown throughout this case, from reporting the crimes to participating in investigations and court proceedings." The victim in this case is recognized as a survivor who displayed courage in confronting and speaking out against the individual who repeatedly manipulated and harmed them over several years.
Detective Harris emphasized the seriousness of sexual abuse: "Sexual abuse devastates lives, so we take every report very seriously.
We understand the strength it takes to come forward." Authorities encourage anyone who has experienced sexual abuse or knows someone who has to reach out for support.
They offer confidential assistance from specialist officers and ongoing help regardless of whether the crime was reported.
Various support services are available, tailored to individuals’ feelings and decisions, to assist survivors at any stage of their journey to recovery.
