MATT TYLER FROM CHADDERTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT AT OLDHAM SHOPPING CENTRE

In a disturbing incident that took place in Oldham, Greater Manchester, a 13-year-old boy was subjected to a heinous sexual assault within the premises of Spindles Shopping Centre on the 17th of September. The assault, which police described as a 'degrading sexual attack,' has left the local community shaken and has prompted a swift legal response.

Matt Leigh Tyler, a 31-year-old resident of Chadderton, was the individual responsible for the assault. Although Tyler denied two counts of rape during the court proceedings, he admitted to engaging in sexual activity with a child under the age of 15. This plea was accepted by the court, leading to his conviction and subsequent sentencing.

At Manchester Crown Court, Tyler was sentenced to three and a half years in prison. The court also imposed additional measures to prevent future harm, including a lifelong requirement for him to register as a sex offender. Furthermore, Tyler was subjected to a court order that explicitly bans him from working with children, reflecting the serious concern about his potential threat to vulnerable minors.

Following the sentencing, Detective Inspector Jamie Daniels of the Public Protection Division of Greater Manchester Police expressed his thoughts on the case. He emphasized the vulnerability of the young victim, stating, 'The victim was at a very vulnerable time of his life when this happened.' DI Daniels highlighted Tyler's exploitation of this vulnerability for his own gratification, describing the assault as 'degrading.'

He also conveyed hope that the court's decision would aid the victim in moving forward, saying, 'The boy is now trying to move on from what happened and I hope today’s result helps him come to terms with the incident.' DI Daniels concluded by acknowledging the efforts of the police staff involved and commending the court for recognizing Tyler's danger to children, which justified the measures taken to protect the public from him.