Wickham man jailed for non-recent child sex offences

A man from Wickham has been jailed for non-recent child sex offences.

Mark Anderton, 28, from The Circle, Wickham, appeared at Southampton Crown Court today (Friday, 21 January) for sentencing.

In December last year, he pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual activity with a child and one count of sexual assault of a child.

The offences took place over a three year period between 2012 and 2014 against one child.

Today he has been sentenced to a total three years and two months in prison.

He has also been placed on the sex offenders register for life.

Detective Constable Mark Harris, from Operation Amberstone, led the investigation.

He said: “Anderton’s actions have caused unspeakable trauma to the victim, and I hope today’s sentencing gives them some small measure of closure so they are able to start a new chapter in their life, knowing justice has been served.

“I would also like to commend them for the incredible bravery they have shown throughout the case., from reporting, to investigation, to court hearings.

“The victim in this case is a survivor, showing courage to stand up the man who hurt them and manipulated them repetitively for a number of years.

“Sexual abuse destroys people’s lives, so we take every report incredibly seriously, and we know it takes great strength to report this kind of crime.

“If you have experienced any form of sexual abuse, or know someone who has, please contact us.

“You can speak with one of our specialist officers in complete confidence, and we will support you throughout the process.”

As a survivor of sexual abuse, you are entitled to support whether you report the crime or not.

You can access different types of support depending on how you are feeling and what you decide to do next.

You can visit https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rsa/rape-and-sexual-assault/support-for-victims-of-rape-and-sexual-assault/ to see the support on offer.