MICHAEL COOK FROM NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

In August 2016, Michael Cook, a man from Newcastle-under-Lyme, was sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of multiple serious charges related to the sexual abuse of a young girl. The court proceedings revealed a disturbing pattern of grooming and exploitation carried out by Cook against the juvenile victim.

According to the evidence presented at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, Cook, aged 37 at the time, initiated contact with the girl by engaging in manipulative behavior that gradually escalated into sexual abuse. The court heard that Cook had initially gained the girl’s trust by complimenting her, telling her she was beautiful, and expressing a desire for them to be in a romantic relationship—despite the significant age difference between them.

The abuse reportedly began with seemingly innocent gestures such as holding her hand and kissing her. However, as time progressed, Cook’s actions became more invasive and sexually explicit. He subjected the girl to sexual assault and ultimately raped her. To further manipulate her, Cook purchased an expensive gift, which was intended to serve as a bribe or token of his control.

Throughout the ordeal, Cook explicitly instructed the girl to keep their interactions secret, warning her that revealing what had happened would lead to negative consequences. It was only years later that the victim confided in the police, leading to Cook’s arrest and subsequent trial.

Cook faced multiple charges, including two counts of rape of a child under 13, two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, and two counts of assault of a child under 13 by penetration. Despite denying the allegations, Cook was convicted on all six charges by a jury on July 20.

During sentencing, Judge Paul Glenn emphasized the severity of Cook’s actions, stating, “There was a significant age gap. You groomed your victim. You persuaded her to perform a sex act on you. You bought her an expensive gift but you told her never to tell anyone. These are serious offences which involved planning and grooming.”

As part of his punishment, Cook was ordered to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. Additionally, he will be prohibited from engaging in activities involving children and vulnerable adults, reflecting the gravity of his crimes and the need to protect others from potential harm.