MARK O’NEILL FROM THETFORD SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS FOR CHILD ABUSE IN NORWICH

In October 2017, a man from Thetford named Mark O’Neill was sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing a young girl. The court also ordered him to be placed on the sex offenders’ register for life, reflecting the severity of his crimes.

O’Neill, aged 50 and residing on Chester Way in Thetford, had maintained his innocence throughout the trial. He denied the allegations of sexual assault brought against him, which involved a girl who was approximately seven years old at the time the abuse took place. Despite his denial, a jury at Norwich Crown Court convicted him following a detailed trial, leading to his sentencing.

Prosecutor Lindsay Cox outlined the disturbing details of the case, emphasizing that the abuse had begun when the girl was very young, around seven years old. The court heard that O’Neill’s actions had caused significant harm to the victim, and the evidence presented during the trial was compelling enough to secure a conviction.

During the sentencing hearing, O’Neill’s defense lawyer, Jonathan Goodman, expressed that his client still did not accept responsibility for the offences. Goodman acknowledged that O’Neill was aware of the court’s verdict but maintained his stance of denial.

Judge Maureen Bacon, presiding over the case, delivered a stern sentence, highlighting the manipulative tactics O’Neill had employed. The judge noted that O’Neill had used coercion on the young girl, which increased the gravity of his misconduct. The court’s report also indicated that O’Neill posed a high risk of harm to children, prompting the judge to impose additional restrictions.

In her remarks, Judge Bacon stated, “You are still denying responsibility for these offences,” underscoring the defendant’s continued refusal to accept accountability. As part of the sentence, O’Neill was also subjected to a sexual harm prevention order, which prohibits him from working with children or in any capacity that could put children at risk.

Overall, the case serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences faced by individuals convicted of child abuse, especially when the abuse involves manipulation and coercion of vulnerable victims. The community in Thetford and Norwich can be assured that justice has been served in this troubling case.