MARK SMITH FROM STOKE-ON-TRENT SENTENCED TO EIGHT YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF SCHOOLGIRL IN STOKE-ON-TRENT
In a case that has shocked the community of Stoke-on-Trent, Mark Smith, a 52-year-old former pub manager, has been sentenced to eight years in prison after being convicted of sexually abusing a schoolgirl.Smith, who previously managed The Black Horse pub located in Chesterton, faced a series of serious charges that culminated in a guilty verdict delivered earlier this month by a jury at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.
During the trial, the court heard disturbing details of Smith’s misconduct.
It was revealed that he had engaged in multiple acts of sexual assault against the young victim, including grabbing her breasts and thighs, kissing her, and touching her breasts and bottom.
The court also learned that Smith had once exposed himself to the girl and explicitly told her he wanted to have sex with her, regardless of her wishes.
On another occasion, he sexually assaulted her in what was described as a 'creepy old park and building,' further traumatizing the young victim.
The impact of Smith’s actions has been profound and lasting on the victim.
She bravely spoke about her ongoing distress, stating, "I am constantly looking over my shoulder to see where he is.
This is not my fault.
It is all his." Her words underscore the deep emotional scars left by the abuse.
Smith, who resides on Lincoln Road in Cobridge, was found guilty of all nine charges against him, which included seven counts of sexual assault and two counts of assault by penetration.
Despite his denial of the allegations, the jury’s verdict was unanimous.
In mitigation, Darron Whitehead acknowledged the severity of the sentence, noting that Smith is aware he faces a custodial term measured in years.
Whitehead also pointed out that Smith will be placed on the Sex Offenders' Register and will be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), which will remain in effect indefinitely.
The court also ordered that Smith must serve at least two-thirds of his prison sentence before being eligible for release.
Addressing Smith directly, Recorder Anthony Warner emphasized the manipulative tactics used by the defendant, stating, "You threatened her and told her she would not be believed.
Your threats worked as she never told anyone at all about what you were doing." The case highlights the importance of justice for victims of sexual abuse and the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable individuals within the community of Stoke-on-Trent.
