SCUNTHORPE SEX OFFENDER MARTIN MCCRACKEN JAILED FOR RAPE AND PICTURE TAKING IN SHOCKING CASE

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Scunthorpe, Martin McCracken, a 42-year-old man from Crowland Avenue, was sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted of heinous sexual offences involving a young girl. The court heard that McCracken exploited the girl’s innocence by luring her into a private setting under false pretenses, claiming he possessed a magic lamp to captivate her attention.

During the trial at Grimsby Crown Court, McCracken denied allegations that he had orally raped the girl under the age of 13 and assaulted her through penetration. However, the jury found him guilty after a thorough trial process. The presiding judge, Mark Bury, highlighted that McCracken was under the influence of drugs and alcohol at the time of the offences, which he believed contributed to his reckless and predatory behavior.

Judge Bury detailed that McCracken had consumed additional drugs and alcohol and had persuaded the young girl to accompany him, using the false promise of a magic lamp as a lure. The sexual offences occurred in a private room, where McCracken also took photographs of the girl, adding a further layer of depravity to his actions, as noted by the judge.

Addressing the court, Judge Bury emphasized the seriousness of the crimes, describing them as opportunistic and committed while McCracken was intoxicated. He condemned the offences as disgusting and expressed disappointment that McCracken had shown no remorse for his actions.

In mitigation, Edward Bindloss, representing McCracken, argued that his client acted impulsively and that there was no grooming or deliberate attempt to gain the girl’s trust. Mr. Bindloss also provided background information, stating that McCracken, who was born and raised in Scunthorpe, has three children and had been employed as a labourer. He described McCracken as a persistent, low-level criminal and drug user, who had spent 158 days in custody prior to sentencing.

As part of his sentence, McCracken was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, a measure that underscores the gravity of his crimes and the community’s need for ongoing protection. Since his release, he has returned to live in the Scunthorpe area, raising concerns among residents about safety and the impact of his actions on the community.