Historic sex offences against a boy, who was 12 when the attacks began.

Hampshire Man Sentenced for Child Sex Offenses

A 28-year-old man from Wickham, Hampshire, has been sentenced to prison for non-recent child sex offenses. Mark Anderton pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual activity with a child and one count of sexual assault of a child in December 2022.

The offenses occurred over a three-year period between 2012 and 2014. Anderton was sentenced to a total of three years and two months in prison and will be placed on the sex offenders' register for life.

Detective Constable Mark Harris, who led the investigation for Operation Amberstone, stated: "Anderton's actions have caused unspeakable trauma to the victim, and I hope today's sentencing gives them some small measure of closure so they are able to start a new chapter in their life, knowing justice has been served. I would also like to commend them for the incredible bravery they have shown throughout the case, from reporting, to investigation, to court hearings."

The victim in this case is a survivor, demonstrating courage by standing up to the man who repeatedly hurt and manipulated them over several years. Sexual abuse has devastating consequences, and authorities take every report seriously. It takes immense strength to come forward and report such crimes.

If you have experienced any form of sexual abuse or know someone who has, please contact the authorities. You can speak with a specialist officer in complete confidence, and they will support you throughout the process. Survivors of sexual abuse are entitled to support, regardless of whether they choose to report the crime or not. Various support options are available depending on individual needs and decisions.