A SCHOOL CARETAKER IS FACING JAIL AFTER SEX ATTACKS ON TWO SCHOOLGIRLS
A school maintenance worker faces potential jail time after being convicted of sexually abusing two young girls.The victims, whose identities are protected by law, shared their emotional experiences following their abuse at ages 12 and 13.
It was revealed in court that Mark Neary, aged 55, threatened to commit suicide if the younger girl revealed what had happened, as outlined during proceedings at Preston Crown Court.
When the older girl reported the abuse to her mother and authorities, Neary dismissed her claims, insisting it was an accident.
He pleaded guilty to three counts of raping a child under 13 and four counts of sexual assault.
During police interviews, the girl described Neary, a school cleaner, assaulting her in school toilets, forcing himself on her in a car, and at a private house, along with three other sexual assaults.
Prosecutor Peter Barr noted that she repeatedly refused Neary’s attempts to commit further offenses, but he eventually stopped.
The younger victim described suffering from insomnia, hearing voices, and experiencing daily emotional crises related to the abuse.
She admitted to losing interest in previous hobbies and noted her school attendance worsening.
The other girl, who was 13 at the time of her assault, recalled Neary apologizing and asking if she was okay, which she initially ignored but later told her mother.
She reported mood swings, sleeping issues, difficulty focusing, panic attacks, and strained relationships, fearing her future trust and connection with others.
Neary, a resident on Trough Road in Clitheroe, admitted to all charges but did not comment during police interviews.
His defense attorney, Kristian Cavanagh, stated his client felt remorseful and highlighted the support letters from Neary’s wife and another woman, who expressed their continued support.
The court is expected to sentence Neary on January 5, with the lawyer acknowledging that his client understands he is likely to serve prison time.
