MICHAEL CROSS, DISGUSTING SEX OFFENDER FROM ST IVES, HAS SENTENCE REDUCED

In October 2012, Michael Cross, a 48-year-old sex offender from St Ives, had his prison sentence shortened following a successful appeal. Cross, described as a “disgusting” pervert, had previously been sentenced to eight years after his conviction for abusing a 15-year-old girl.

He lured the teenager to his home in Bure Close, St Ives, where he gave her cocaine, cannabis, and beer before persuading her to undress and engage in sexual activity. Despite the serious nature of his offenses, judges at the Criminal Appeal Court in London reduced his sentence to six years, ruling that the original term was excessive.

Mr. Justice Nicol stated, “The sentence had been excessive given that no force was used against the victim when she declined to have sex with him.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining perspective regarding the depravity of the behavior, despite its repugnance.

Cross had admitted to sexual activity with a child and supplying cannabis. He was also found guilty of additional charges including another count of sexual activity with a child, inciting a child to engage in sexual acts twice, and supplying cocaine.

The court heard the victim was particularly vulnerable, and that Cross had offered her drugs and alcohol, all of which she accepted before he persuaded her to perform a striptease. He then sexually assaulted her, engaging in sex acts, but stopped short of full intercourse when she refused.

The victim was profoundly affected by the incident and reported it to her mother before contacting the police. During the incident, Cross revealed he had been drinking since 11 am that day, consuming approximately 15 pints of lager and several shots of spirits.

It was noted that Cross had previously served a 20-month sentence in 2008 for supplying cocaine and cannabis. His lawyers argued that the original eight-year sentence was too harsh, exceeding the guidelines for similar offenses.