MARK SELLICK FROM LISKEARD SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Liskeard, a local man named Mark Sellick has been sentenced to prison for heinous acts of child sexual abuse. The incident involved the abuse of a very young girl, with Sellick not only engaging in inappropriate acts but also taking explicit photographs of the victim to relive the assault later.

Sellick, aged 34 and a resident of Fore Street in Liskeard, appeared before Truro Crown Court to face sentencing after pleading guilty to multiple serious charges. These included indecent assault of a child under the age of 13, the production and possession of indecent images of a child, and engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a minor.

The prosecution, led by Heather Hope, detailed how authorities uncovered evidence that led to Sellick’s arrest. During a search of his phone and computer, investigators discovered a Dropbox folder containing explicit photographs of the victim alongside images of Sellick himself. This evidence was crucial in establishing the extent of his misconduct.

During police interviews, the young victim recounted the horrifying details of her ordeal. She described how Sellick would undress her and engage in inappropriate behavior, including playing with himself in her presence. On one particularly disturbing occasion, he penetrated her despite her pleas for him to stop. The victim’s testimony highlighted the traumatic impact of the abuse, which has left her with lasting emotional scars.

In his interview with authorities, Sellick denied having any sexual interest in children. He claimed that he did not derive any sexual gratification from viewing indecent images of minors, a statement that was met with disbelief given the evidence against him.

Judge Simon Carr, presiding over the case, addressed the court and recounted the severity of Sellick’s actions. He emphasized the devastating effects of the abuse on the young girl and the importance of protecting children from such predators. As a result, Judge Carr sentenced Sellick to a term of 10 years in prison. Additionally, Sellick was ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register for the rest of his life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions.

During the sentencing, the victim bravely read an impact statement to the court. She expressed her feelings of fear and betrayal, stating, “He told me not to tell anyone and I felt I had to keep a secret or he’d hurt me. I tried to shut it out but I can’t.. I’m scared of men coming near me and even flinch when my mum goes to brush my hair. Life is a living hell and it’s a struggle to keep smiling knowing how much pain he’s caused.”

The case has brought to light the dark underbelly of child abuse within the community of Liskeard, prompting calls for increased vigilance and protective measures to prevent such tragedies from recurring.