CHRISTOPHER CLARK FROM MELKSHAM SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING TEENAGE GIRLS IN MELKSHAM

In a case that has shocked the community of Melksham, Christopher Clark, a 34-year-old man, has been convicted and sentenced for engaging in inappropriate and illegal sexual activities involving two teenage girls. The incidents, which took place over a period spanning from late May to mid August of the previous year, have brought to light serious concerns about the safety and well-being of minors in the area.

Clark, who was residing on Leaze Road in Melksham at the time of the offenses, was found to have committed acts of sexual assault against two girls aged 13 and 14. The crimes came to public attention after the victims disclosed their experiences to their mother, leading to an investigation. It was revealed that Clark had also allowed the girls to view pornography on his mobile phone during a separate occasion, raising further alarm about his conduct while entrusted with their care.

The incident involving the girls occurred during a family gathering in August last year, when Clark visited the victims' family home for a barbecue. He had brought his caravan, intending to stay overnight. During the evening, one of the girls was in his vehicle, and Clark attempted to kiss her on the lips. The following morning, he engaged in inappropriate touching with the other girl. These acts were uncovered after the girls saw the explicit material on Clark’s phone while he was babysitting them, which they later reported to their mother.

Prosecutor Colin Meeke outlined the details of the case during a hearing at Swindon Crown Court. He emphasized that Clark’s actions were morally reprehensible, if not legally prosecutable, and highlighted that the defendant had no prior criminal record. Clark admitted to two counts of sexual activity with a child and one count of attempted sexual activity. His defense attorney, Tim Hills, argued that Clark had led a blameless life until these incidents and was genuinely remorseful. Hills also noted that Clark, who is married but separated, had been open with probation officers about his issues and that his attraction to teenage girls had developed over the years, which he acknowledged needed to be addressed.

Judge Douglas Field, presiding over the case, acknowledged Clark’s admission of his problem and emphasized the importance of public safety. He ordered Clark to participate in the Thames Valley Sex Offender Programme for three years and mandated that he register as a sex offender for five years. Additionally, Clark was issued a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, restricting his liberty for five years, which could include bans from working with children. The judge’s decision reflects the seriousness with which the court views offenses involving minors and underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and intervention.

Earlier in March 2013, Clark had pleaded guilty to two charges of sexual activity with a child, specifically involving the same two girls. He also admitted to attempting to engage in sexual activity with the younger girl during a similar timeframe. During that hearing, Clark denied causing the girls to watch sexual acts, and prosecutors indicated they would not pursue further charges on those counts. Clark was released on bail with conditions that prohibit him from visiting Dilton Marsh or contacting witnesses, and he was ordered to register as a sex offender. The length of his registration requirement will be determined at sentencing, which is scheduled for April 5, when a pre-sentence report will be considered.

This case has sent ripples through the community of Melksham, raising concerns about safeguarding and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable minors from exploitation and abuse. The court’s actions serve as a reminder of the serious consequences faced by those who commit such offenses, and the ongoing efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future.