MARK MANSELL FROM MITCHAM AND SOUTHAMPTON JAILED FOR RAPE OF FOUR-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In a case that spanned nearly two decades, Mark Mansell, a man with no fixed address, has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for the heinous sexual assault of a four-year-old girl. The incident occurred in July 1998, when Mansell, then 23 years old, committed the assault at a friend’s residence in Mitcham. The young victim, only four years old at the time, was manipulated into promising not to reveal their secret, with Mansell allegedly telling her that no one would believe her if she confided in anyone.

Despite the gravity of the crime, Mansell initially denied any involvement when questioned in 2001. During that interview, he expressed devastation at being accused of such acts, but police found insufficient evidence to pursue the case further at that time, leading to its closure. However, the victim’s courage to come forward again in 2013 prompted a renewed investigation into the matter.

By 2015, Mansell’s circumstances had changed significantly. He was living as a homeless individual on the streets of Southampton, which is located not far from Mitcham. His lifestyle did not prevent authorities from tracking him down, and in July 2016, Hampshire Police arrested him on multiple charges, including the rape of a girl under 13, attempted rape, indecent assault on a girl under 14, and gross indecency with a girl under 14.

Following a thorough legal process, Mansell was convicted and sentenced to 13 years in prison on the Friday before the report was published. The case highlights the importance of persistence in seeking justice for victims of sexual abuse, regardless of how much time has passed since the crime was committed. The authorities hope that this conviction will serve as a reminder of the long arm of justice and the need to protect vulnerable children from predators like Mansell.