Mark Anderton of Wickham jailed for non-recent child sex offences

Mark Anderton, 28, appeared at Southampton Crown Court today for sentencing.

The Wickham resident had pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual activity with a child, and one count of sexual assault of a child, in December last year.

These offences took place over a three year period between 2012 and 2014.

He has been sentenced to a total of three years and two months in prison and will spend the rest of his life on the sex offenders' register.

Mark Anderton was jailed at Southampton Crown Court

Detective Constable Mark Harris, from Operation Amberstone, led the investigation.

He said: “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, showing courage to stand up the man who hurt them and manipulated them repetitively for a number of years.

“Sexual abuse destroys people’s lives, so we take every report incredibly seriously, and we know it takes great strength to report this kind of crime.

“If you have experienced any form of sexual abuse, or know someone who has, please contact us.

“You can speak with one of our specialist officers in complete confidence, and we will support you throughout the process.”

Survivors of sexual abuse are entitled to support, whether they report the crime or not.

Different types of support, depending on how they are feeling, and what they decide to do next, are available.

For more, see hampshire.police.uk/advice