MICHAEL BARKER FROM WHITWORTH SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN MANCHESTER

In a recent case heard at Minshull Street Crown Court, a man from Whitworth named Michael William Barker, aged 40, was found guilty of serious child sex offences. The charges against Barker involved the creation and possession of indecent photographs of a minor, a crime that has garnered significant attention due to its disturbing nature.

On July 24, 2019, Barker was formally sentenced after being charged with three counts related to the production of indecent images of a child. The court's proceedings revealed the extent of his offences, which included making and possibly distributing such images, raising concerns about the safety and protection of children in the community.

As part of his sentencing, Barker received a total prison term of 10 months, but this was suspended for a period of 18 months, meaning he will not serve time in prison unless he commits further offences within that period. The sentences for each of the three charges were served concurrently, with Barker receiving 10 months for one count, six months for another, and four months for the third.

In addition to the suspended imprisonment, Barker was ordered to undertake 200 hours of unpaid community work, emphasizing the court’s focus on rehabilitation and community safety. He was also mandated to complete 30 days of rehabilitation programs aimed at addressing his behaviour.

Furthermore, Barker was placed under strict legal obligations to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for a decade, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. A Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) was also imposed for 10 years, restricting his access to certain online platforms and contact with minors, in an effort to prevent any future harm.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and the judicial system to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable members of society, especially in local communities like Whitworth and the wider Manchester area.