BRIAN CLARK FROM NEWBIGGIN SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS FOR CHILD RAPE IN NEWCASTLE

In a recent and highly disturbing case, Brian Clark, a resident of Long Park in Newbiggin, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 25 years after being convicted of heinous crimes involving two young women who are now adults. The crimes, which took place during their childhoods, have left deep scars on their lives, and Clark’s actions have been described as 'horrendous' by those affected.

Clark, aged 82, faced multiple charges including rape, gross indecency, and indecent assault. Throughout the trial at Newcastle Crown Court, he maintained his innocence, denying all allegations. However, after a jury deliberated, they found him guilty of all charges earlier this week. The victims, who chose to speak out through impact statements, expressed the profound and lasting damage inflicted upon them. One of the women stated, “I feel like I have been robbed of my childhood, when I should have been playing with dolls, prams, and Barbies. Instead, my innocence was taken away from me.”

Both women described how the abuse they endured as children has affected various facets of their adult lives, including their emotional well-being and personal relationships. Their courage in coming forward and facing their abuser in court was acknowledged by the judge.

Judge Robert Spragg, presiding over the case, sentenced Clark to serve a minimum of two-thirds of his 25-year term before being eligible for parole. Additionally, Clark is required to register as a sex offender for life and will be subject to a one-year extended license period following his release. The judge also noted Clark’s advanced age and serious medical conditions, stating, “I take into account any sentence is likely to be harder for you than someone in good health.” Nonetheless, Judge Spragg emphasized that the possibility of Clark dying in prison does not influence the length or nature of the sentence, stating, “That is entirely a matter for the Secretary of State, not a matter for this court.”

Addressing Clark directly, the judge criticized his attempt to portray the victims as liars and his apparent lack of remorse. “You sought to portray the two women as liars and you have shown no remorse,” Judge Spragg said. “They have both shown enormous courage to face the past and bring you to justice. I hope the sentence will provide some sort of closure for them and will allow them to move on as best as they can.”