MARTIN BAILEY OF BOULTON MOOR SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES AGAINST GIRLS IN DERBY AND WOLVERHAMPTON

In July 2010, a man named Martin Bailey, residing on Seven Lands Drive in Boulton Moor, was sentenced to five years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing two young schoolgirls. The case, which drew significant attention, highlighted the disturbing nature of Bailey's actions and the serious consequences he now faces.

Judge Michael Challinor, presiding over the case, addressed Bailey directly during the sentencing at Wolverhampton Crown Court. He described Bailey as a "predatory paedophile" and emphasized the danger he posed to young girls in the community. The judge expressed concern about the potential for future offenses, stating, "There is a risk of further offending of a sexual nature against children."

Bailey, aged 40, was convicted on a majority verdict after an eight-day trial at Derby Crown Court. The charges included three counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor. Throughout the proceedings, it was revealed that Bailey had deliberately groomed the victims, exploiting their vulnerability and troubled backgrounds with calculated intent. Judge Challinor condemned Bailey's actions, noting that he had cynically targeted the girls, fully aware of their fragility and innocence.

In his sentencing remarks, the judge condemned Bailey's grooming behavior, stating, "You groomed these girls cynically with breathtaking disregard for their welfare. They were both vulnerable and troubled. You sensed their vulnerability and you preyed upon it. The harm you have done cannot be assessed but it is likely to be very considerable."

As part of his punishment, Bailey was ordered to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. Additionally, he was permanently prohibited from working with children, reflecting the court's determination to protect the community from further harm.

During the trial, Bailey's defense attorney, Mr. Neil Williams, argued that Bailey was a man with positive qualities who had previously been responsible for caring for others. He maintained that Bailey had not used physical force against the victims and expressed regret that Bailey did not fully acknowledge responsibility for his actions. Despite these arguments, the court found the evidence sufficient to convict him, and the sentence was handed down to serve as both punishment and a deterrent to others who might consider similar predatory behavior.