MARK CHAPMAN FROM WILLSBRIDGE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF SIX-YEAR-OLD GIRLS IN BRISTOL

In July 2014, a man from Willsbridge was sentenced at Bristol Crown Court for serious sexual offenses involving two young girls. Mark Chapman, aged 47, pleaded guilty to four separate charges related to causing or inciting a child under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity. The court heard that the victims, both six years old, were manipulated into touching Chapman’s private parts, and he, in turn, rubbed himself against them in an inappropriate manner.

According to reports, the young girls reported the disturbing incidents, prompting police intervention. During the trial, Chapman initially claimed that the children had encouraged his behavior, a defense that was ultimately rejected by the court. The prosecution presented evidence that clearly demonstrated the abuse inflicted upon the children, who are unable to be identified publicly due to legal protections.

Defending Chapman, lawyer Derek Perry stated that his client did not blame the children for what happened and admitted to his wrongdoing solely to prevent further trauma for the victims. Despite this, the judge, Graham Hume Jones, was unequivocal in his condemnation. He told Chapman, “You encouraged them and in their childish way they enjoyed what was happening. You should not have allowed it to happen and you should not have allowed it to continue.”

The judge expressed concern over the lasting impact on the young victims, noting, “I have no doubt that those two children are now very confused as to what has happened. Because of the background you created in their minds and in the minds of others around them, they now see you as a threat and are frightened.”

As part of his sentence, Chapman was prohibited from working with children in any capacity and was issued an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which prevents him from having unsupervised contact with minors. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities to protect the community from further harm.