MARK HENDERSON SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS IN PRISON IN DURHAM FOR SEX OFFENCES

A man who raped and sexually abused three young girls was yesterday sentenced to 15 years in prison. Mark Patrick Henderson, 49, was found guilty of giving the girls alcohol and employing coercion during the offences. Durham Crown Court was told that Henderson initially denied the accusations after they surfaced in December 2009, only beginning to admit guilt on the day his trial was scheduled to start last month.

Prosecutor Julie Clemitson explained that each of Henderson’s victims had to prepare themselves to testify in court, with one even flown from the United States to give evidence. Over two days, Henderson finally confessed and pleaded guilty to 11 charges, including three counts of rape, indecency with a child, and indecent assault.

Henderson, who resides on Bishopton Lane in Stockton and was previously from north-west Durham, was remanded in custody while reports from the Probation Service were prepared. Yesterday, he appeared back in court for sentencing. Victim impact statements highlighted the profound and lasting effects his abuse had on the victims.

Defence solicitor Robert Mochrie, noting Henderson’s previously good character, told the court: “He’s a man of few words and often struggles to communicate. There’s very little a person in his position can do to fully express remorse. Perhaps the most he can do is admit to the offences, which he did, although only when pushed to do so. He initially denied the allegations during police interviews and has since found the courage to tell his wife what he did. In a misguided attempt to maintain his relationship, he falsely convinced his partner he was innocent.”

Judge Christopher Prince stated that Henderson’s sentence would have been 17 years if he had not finally admitted guilt. Henderson will also be on the sex offenders’ register for life.