REDDITCH ENGINEER CHRISTOPHER MARKLEW SENTENCED TO 8 YEARS FOR REPEATED ABUSE OF SCHOOLGIRLS IN REDDITCH
In a case that has shocked the community of Redditch, a local engineer named Christopher Marklew has been sentenced to eight years in prison following his conviction for the repeated sexual abuse of two young women who were at the time schoolgirls.The incident, which took place over a period of time, has left a lasting scar on the victims and has brought to light the disturbing actions of a man who was trusted in his community.
Marklew, aged 69 and residing on Danzey Close in Redditch, faced a court where he admitted to nine separate allegations of indecent assault.
The court heard harrowing testimonies from the victims, both of whom are now adults, describing the profound impact the abuse has had on their lives.
One of the women delivered her victim statement behind a screen, describing Marklew as an “opportunistic abuser” who exploited her vulnerability during her formative years.
She recounted that the trauma inflicted by Marklew’s actions has left her suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, with frequent flashbacks that haunt her memories.
She described feeling “blank, worthless and used,” highlighting the deep emotional scars that remain.
The second victim’s statement, read aloud in court by prosecutor Siobhan Collins, revealed that she has struggled with urges to self-harm and has experienced overwhelming feelings of despair, grief, isolation, and depression as a result of the abuse.
Throughout the proceedings, the defense, represented by Jason Aris, argued that Marklew is remorseful for his actions.
Aris stated, “It’s very clear that this defendant is full of remorse for what happened.
The acknowledgment of this disgraceful and disgusting behaviour is hard to live with.” Despite this, the judge, Robert Juckes QC, emphasized the gravity of the crimes and the character of the offender.
Addressing Marklew directly, the judge remarked, “You are now very nearly 70 and you are a broken man – a man who in every other respect has led a constructive life and has done well in business as an engineer.” Judge Juckes sentenced Marklew to serve a minimum of four years in prison before being eligible for release on licence, underscoring the seriousness of his crimes and the lasting damage caused to the victims.
The case has left the Redditch community grappling with the betrayal of trust and the devastating consequences of abuse by someone they once regarded as a reputable member of society.
