RAPIST WHO THREATENED SCHOOLGIRL WITH KNIFE JAILED
A convicted paedophile who assaulted a schoolgirl and threatened her with a knife has been sentenced to 24 years in prison.Martin Jackson, who also abused a second girl, was extradited into the spotlight after the victims bravely disclosed their experiences to family members.
The 46-year-old was questioned by Northumbria Police in March 2022 after authorities were alerted to his crimes.
Jackson initially denied any involvement or wrongdoing.
After a thorough investigation by the police’s Safeguarding Department, Jackson faced charges of multiple child sexual offenses in September 2024.
In December, following a trial, he was convicted of 17 counts including sexual assault, inciting a child to engage in sexual acts, and rape.
Jackson, who resides on Seymour Street in North Shields, received a 24-year sentence for these offenses, along with an additional year on license.
He will also be subject to life registration as a sex offender.
During the court hearing, statements from the victims detailed the profound and ongoing mental health issues they endure.
Both continue to experience anxiety and panic attacks.
One survivor described developing PTSD from the abuse, which they said haunts them daily.
They explained that leaving their home or going to work causes the memories to overwhelm them, likening it to a train rushing at them.
At home, they are plagued by constant flashbacks, feeling as if the abuse is ongoing.
Despite hoping to find relief through sleep, they are repeatedly jolted awake by nightmares that have marked their past years.
Detective Constable Gavin James, who led the investigation, commented: “Martin Jackson is a predatory paedophile who committed these heinous acts for his own gratification.
He sought control over his victims, even threatening them if they revealed the abuse.
While no legal sentence can undo what happened, I hope this substantial prison term provides some reassurance to the survivors that their abuser is now incarcerated.” He continued: “Above all else, I would especially like to commend the bravery of both victims involved.
They have both shown immense courage in coming forward about the non-recent abuse they suffered at the hands of Jackson, and I wish them well in their journey forward.
"My advice to anyone out there who has read this and can sadly relate to our survivor’s story of abuse, is to open up to whoever you can if possible and remember that your local police force is here for you.”
