MARK COX FROM ACCRINGTON AND BURY SENTENCED FOR CHILD RAPE AND INDECENT IMAGES IN BOLTON

In a serious case that has shocked the local communities of Accrington and Bury, Mark Cox, a 19-year-old man, was brought before Bolton Crown Court to face charges related to the sexual abuse of a young girl and the possession of indecent images of children. The incident, which has garnered significant media attention, highlights the disturbing nature of the crimes committed by Cox, who at the time of sentencing was residing in Bury but has since been released and is now living in Blackburn.

During the court proceedings held on a Tuesday, Cox was visibly emotional, crying as he received his sentence. The court sentenced him to a total of three years in a young offenders institution for the most serious charge—raping a girl under the age of 13. Additionally, he received a 15-month sentence for inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity, and a three-month sentence for possessing 12 counts of indecent images of children. These sentences are to be served concurrently, meaning Cox will serve the combined time simultaneously.

The case was brought to light after the victim, a 12-year-old girl, sought medical assistance at a sexual health clinic along with a friend. During the consultation, clinic staff uncovered evidence of the abuse, prompting further investigation. Cox was subsequently arrested by police, who discovered on his mobile phone a collection of indecent images of children, including one believed to be as young as 11 years old. The court heard that Cox had an unhealthy and immature fascination with young girls, which contributed to his criminal behavior.

At the time of his arrest, Cox was living on Pansy Street South in Accrington. The court also imposed a sexual offences prevention order that will restrict his activities for the next ten years, aiming to prevent any further offenses. The judge emphasized the severity of Cox’s actions, which involved both direct sexual assault and the possession of harmful material involving minors.

For those interested in the details of the case, a documentary covering Cox’s arrest and subsequent trial is available, starting at the 43-minute mark on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9UpvO1-ntk. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect vulnerable children from exploitation and abuse.