MARTIN LAWLESS FROM CRUMPSALL SENTENCED AFTER SHOCKING PUBLIC SEX ACT IN FRONT OF SCHOOLGIRL IN MANCHESTER

In a disturbing incident that has shocked the local community, Martin Lawless, a 67-year-old man from Crumpsall, was found guilty of committing a heinous act of public indecency involving a young schoolgirl. The incident took place on a Sunday afternoon, specifically around 4:30 pm on February 19, when Lawless, riding his bicycle through the streets of Manchester, pulled over near the child's residence.

According to court reports, Lawless approached the nine-year-old girl and her friend as they stood outside her home. Without warning, he proceeded to drop his pants and perform a sexual act in front of the horrified children. The young girl, who was facing and witnessing this appalling behavior, was understandably distressed by the ordeal. After the act, Lawless quickly rode away on his bike, leaving the children shaken and frightened.

The children immediately informed their parents about the incident, prompting concern and alarm within the community. It was only a few days later, on March 12, that Lawless was spotted by the father of one of the children. Recognizing him, the father, along with other members of the public, detained Lawless until police arrived to make an arrest.

During police questioning, Lawless admitted to the offense. He explained that he confessed because he did not want the children to suffer any further distress. His actions, however, had already caused significant trauma, especially to the nine-year-old girl who witnessed and was subjected to his indecent behavior.

Lawless's criminal history is extensive, with a total of 84 offences, 24 of which are related to sexual misconduct. He has previously been convicted of similar crimes, demonstrating a long-standing pattern of predatory behavior. His prior convictions include a 2013 case where he performed a sex act in Oldham town centre, only yards from unsuspecting children. At that time, he was sentenced to 40 months in prison after admitting to outraging public decency and breaching a sexual offences prevention order.

In the recent case, Lawless was charged with outraging public decency and breaching a sexual harm prevention order that prohibited him from contacting or being in the company of children under 16. The Manchester Crown Court heard that Lawless's latest offense was a clear breach of this order, which was meant to protect vulnerable minors from his predatory behavior.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Elizabeth Nicholls expressed her concern over the impact of Lawless's actions on the young girl. She stated, “A nine-year-old facing and witnessing what she did would certainly suffer distress.” Recognizing the severity of the crime and the risk Lawless posed to the community, the judge sentenced him to two years in prison. The court emphasized that such a harsh penalty was necessary to protect the public and prevent further harm.

Lawless, formerly residing on Station Road in Crumpsall, pleaded guilty to charges of outraging public decency and breaching the sexual harm prevention order. His conviction and subsequent imprisonment serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by repeat offenders with a history of sexual misconduct, especially those who target children in public spaces.