BLACKPOOL RAPIST MARC HOWSON SENTENCED TO 26 YEARS FOR MONSTROUS CRIMES IN PRESTON

A man from Blackpool, Marc Howson, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being convicted of a series of heinous sexual offenses committed over a decade. The crimes, which included assault, rape, and acts of extreme cruelty, were detailed during a court hearing at Preston Crown Court, where the severity of his actions was laid bare.

Howson, aged 48 and residing on Somerset Avenue in Blackpool, was found guilty on 15 November by a jury that carefully considered evidence of his long history of abuse against women and girls. The court heard that over a period spanning the 1990s and early 2000s, Howson subjected multiple victims to a disturbing pattern of sexual violence and physical assault, leaving a trail of trauma and suffering.

The jury convicted him on a total of 11 counts, which included six counts of rape—one of which involved multiple incidents—along with three counts of assault and two counts of indecent assault. The court also heard about particularly shocking acts, such as Howson setting fire to one victim’s hair, wrapping telephone wire around another victim’s neck, and even stubbing out a cigarette on a different victim’s cheek. These acts of cruelty underscored the monstrous nature of his crimes.

In addition to his prison sentence, Howson was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. The sentencing took place on a Monday, with the court emphasizing the gravity of his offenses and the danger he poses to the community.

Following the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Kat Knock from Lancashire Police expressed her admiration for the bravery of the victims who came forward. She stated, “Without their bravery, Howson’s monstrous crimes may never have come to light.” She further commented on the depravity of his actions, saying, “The level of depravity he subjected his victims to beggars belief - he is a clear danger to women and I welcome the fact that he is now behind bars for a lengthy period of time.”

Det Sgt Knock also conveyed her hope that the sentence would provide some measure of justice for the victims and encouraged others who might have suffered similar abuse to come forward and seek help. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of speaking out against abuse and the justice that can be achieved through the legal system.