MARK BRINTON FROM KIRBY SENTENCED TO 13 YEARS FOR CHILD SEXUAL OFFENCES IN LIVERPOOL

Detectives from the Protecting Vulnerable People (PVP) team have successfully secured a significant conviction and sentencing for a man from Kirby, who was found guilty of multiple serious sexual offences committed against a child. Today, at Liverpool Crown Court, Mark Brinton, aged 50 and residing on Rockford Avenue in Kirby, was sentenced to a term of 13 years in prison for his heinous crimes.

In addition to his custodial sentence, Brinton was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that will remain in effect for 15 years. This order imposes strict conditions, including a prohibition on having any unsupervised contact with children under the age of 18. Furthermore, authorities will monitor his electronic devices to prevent any further misconduct. A restraining order was also issued, barring Brinton from making any contact with the complainant and three members of her family for the same duration of 15 years.

Brinton had entered a plea of not guilty to the charges but was subsequently found guilty in February following a trial. Prior to sentencing, he was remanded into custody, ensuring he remained in detention during the legal proceedings.

The offences for which Brinton was convicted include seven counts of sexual activity with a child, one count of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and four counts of causing a child to engage in sexual activity. These criminal acts took place over a period spanning from 2016 to 2018, highlighting a prolonged pattern of abuse.

During the sentencing, a statement from the victim was read, revealing the profound and lasting impact of the abuse. The victim expressed that the adage “time heals everything” does not apply to her, emphasizing that she continues to face a vicious cycle of trauma. She described her struggles with mental health, including frequent breakdowns occurring roughly every three weeks, and her attempts to self-soothe by staying awake until early morning hours, often ending in tears and exhaustion.

She conveyed her desire for help, stating that she can no longer pretend to be fine and feels constantly vulnerable and fearful—not only of others but also of herself. The victim shared her fears of relapsing into old habits and her tendency to mask her emotions to avoid vulnerability, likening her emotional defenses to wearing a full-body armor. She explained that she has become adept at hiding her true feelings from those around her.

The victim also recounted the emotional toll of giving evidence in court, describing it as one of the most mentally challenging experiences she has endured. Despite this, she expressed pride in her resilience, noting that standing on the witness stand and sharing her truth allowed her to see herself in a new light.

Following the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Becky Robinson commented on the case, describing Brinton as a “despicable, persistent and manipulative offender” who now faces a lengthy prison term. She acknowledged that Brinton’s initial not guilty pleas caused additional trauma for the victim, who had to endure a trial. DS Robinson emphasized the significant and ongoing harm caused by Brinton’s actions and expressed hope that the victim now feels a sense of justice and that the sentencing will aid in her recovery.

She also extended her gratitude to the victim and their support network for their bravery and strength in seeing the case through to its conclusion. DS Robinson reassured the public that specialized support services are available across Merseyside for victims of sexual offences, whether or not they have reported the incident to police. She urged anyone who has been a victim to reach out, emphasizing that trained officers and support agencies are ready to assist at every stage of the process.

For those wishing to report a sexual offence, the police can be contacted via 101, where specially trained officers are available, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. In emergencies, the public should always dial 999. Support services are also accessible for victims seeking confidential help, including the Sexual Assault Referral Centre called Safe Place, which offers examinations and DNA evidence collection without police involvement, allowing victims to decide later whether to pursue formal charges. Additional support is available through organizations such as Rape and Sexual Abuse Support (RASA) Merseyside and the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (RASASC) Cheshire and Merseyside, providing free, confidential assistance.

Victims are encouraged to seek help and are assured that support is available throughout the investigation, court proceedings, and beyond, ensuring they do not have to face their trauma alone.