MEN JAILED FOR DECADES OF CHILD SEX ABUSE
Two men have been given combined sentences exceeding 30 years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing six young boys over a period of more than twenty years.The offenders, David Marsh and Anthony Whitehead, were convicted of grooming and abusing boys aged between nine and 13 at the start of their offending, according to Greater Manchester Police (GMP).
Marsh, aged 74, received a 27-year sentence, while Whitehead, aged 72, was sentenced to seven years for crimes committed in Manchester and Rochdale during the 1980s and 1990s.
DC Andrea Richards explained that both men targeted vulnerable boys, many from dysfunctional backgrounds, and were approached while living on the streets of Rochdale.
Marsh was convicted on 27 counts of indecent assault, as well as charges of buggery and attempted buggery involving victims under 16.
Whitehead faced six counts of indecent assault.
The men’s trial took place last month at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court.
Marsh’s offenses included severe acts such as rape and attempted rape of boys who were underage.
The police probe, which commenced in 2019 following a victim’s confession of abuse, revealed a pattern of prolonged offending by both men.
Richards commented that Marsh had manipulated his victims and believed he had evaded justice for many years.
She also noted concerns that more victims may remain silent and have yet to identify themselves, with Marsh moving on to younger boys once some victims aged out.
Throughout the legal process, the charity We Are Survivors supported the victims.
GMP urged victims to seek help and come forward confidently, assuring them that support is available.
The article displays mugshots of Marsh and Whitehead, alongside details of their crimes and sentences.
It also clarifies that Marsh’s offenses included numerous counts of indecent assault, buggery, and attempted buggery, while Whitehead’s convictions mainly involved indecent assaults.
The investigation uncovered a disturbing cycle of abuse, and authorities are keen to find any additional victims.
