NORMAN MARCROFT SENTENCED IN SALE FOR SEVEN YEARS FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN MANCHESTER

In a case that has shocked the community of Sale and the wider Manchester area, Norman Marcroft, a 57-year-old resident of Symons Road in Sale, has been sentenced to a total of seven years and two months in prison for heinous acts of sexual abuse committed against a young boy. The sentencing took place at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court, where Marcroft pleaded guilty to multiple serious charges related to child sexual offenses.

Specifically, Marcroft admitted to four counts of sexual assault of a child, two counts of assault of a child by penetration, four counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and two counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child. These charges reflect a pattern of disturbing behavior that spanned over two years, from August 2009 to October 2011, beginning when the victim was only seven years old.

The court heard that Marcroft would forcibly take the young boy into a private room, where he carried out the abusive acts. The details of the case highlight the predatory nature of the offenses and the betrayal of trust involved, given the victim's young age and the private setting in which the abuse occurred.

As part of his sentence, Marcroft was ordered to register as a sex offender, a designation that will remain on his record for the rest of his life. This measure is intended to protect the community and ensure ongoing monitoring of his activities.

Detective Constable Barry Conway, who was involved in the investigation, expressed his support for the victim and his family. He stated, “The victim showed bravery and informed his parents which is what led to a police investigation. Marcroft’s abuse had a terrible impact on his victim, and we would like to praise him and his family for their efforts in fully supporting our investigation.”

Conway further emphasized the importance of community vigilance and encouraged other victims of abuse to come forward. “Clearly this is an abusive man who cannot be trusted with children and we are pleased with the sentence that has been given today. We hope that the conclusion of this case can help him move on. We would urge anyone who has been a victim of abuse to contact Greater Manchester Police. We have specially trained officers who are able to offer support and carry out thorough investigations.”