MARK FERNEYHOUGH FROM NORTHWOOD JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF TEENAGER IN MIDLANDS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Mark Ferneyhough, a resident of Cardwell Street in Northwood, has been sentenced to prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing a teenage girl. The incident, which took place in the Midlands, involved Ferneyhough's relentless and inappropriate physical advances towards a young, frightened victim who clearly expressed her discomfort and rejection.

Ferneyhough, aged 44, was no stranger to the criminal justice system, having previously been convicted in 2008 for three separate sexual assault offences. Despite his past convictions, he denied five charges of sexual assault brought against him in this recent case. However, after a thorough trial at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, the jury found him guilty of all the charges.

The court proceedings revealed the disturbing details of Ferneyhough's conduct. It was established that he repeatedly touched the victim's legs, thighs, and breasts, despite her clear signals that she did not welcome his advances. Witnesses and evidence indicated that he also rubbed himself against her and went further by placing his hand down her trousers to grope her bottom. The victim, who was understandably overwhelmed and frightened, provided a statement describing the profound impact the abuse has had on her emotional well-being and daily life.

Judge Paul Glenn presided over the case and sentenced Ferneyhough to two years in prison. The court also ordered him to register as a sex offender for the next ten years. Additionally, Ferneyhough has been prohibited from engaging in activities involving children and vulnerable adults, reflecting the seriousness of his actions.

During the sentencing, Judge Glenn emphasized the severity of Ferneyhough's misconduct. He stated, “You were all over your victim like a rash. She made it plain she did not welcome your attention. But you completely ignored her. You carried on touching her, even though you were old enough to be her father. When you became confident she was not going to shout or tell anyone, you pushed your luck and became bolder. She was completely overwhelmed by events and she was scared. The behaviour was particularly bad when you were alone together. You knew just what you were doing. You touched her repeatedly to her legs, thighs and breasts, rubbed yourself against her, put your hand down her trousers to feel her bottom. You found her attractive.”

This case highlights the ongoing issues of sexual misconduct and the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from predatory behaviour. The community in Northwood and the wider Midlands will undoubtedly be affected by this case, which serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and justice in cases of sexual abuse.