Tameside man who attempted to rape child jailed for series of sex offences

A man has been jailed for over three-and-a-half years for a series of child sex offences.

Jonathan Roberts (25/06/1992), of no fixed abode, was sentenced at Minshull Street Crown Court yesterday (15 July 2022) to one count of attempt rape of a child, two counts of sexual activity in front of a child, one count of sexual assault of a child and one count of possession of indecent images.

The court heard how the offences occurred while Roberts visited an address where the young victim lived.

After a short period of time, police received a report relating to concerns over Roberts' obsession with a two-year-old child which triggered an in depth investigation by detectives leading to Roberts arrest in November 2021.

A subsequent search of his mobile phone identified an indecent image of a child.

Detective Constable Louise Isherwood, of GMP Tameside's Child Protection Investigation Unit, said: "Roberts' actions are nothing other than atrocious.

"He has shown an unhealthy obsession with children and his actions were all for his own perverted sexual gratification, sparing little thought for the distressing impact that this could have on his young victim.

"I would like to use this opportunity to encourage anyone aware of any adult inappropriately involved with a young person to report it immediately.  This can be reported directly to Police or an appropriate adult or agency.  This will ensure that the young person is safeguarded and supported;  the suspect can then be identified and located.

"I also hope this result sends a stark warning to offenders that this behaviour will not be tolerated and that we are committed to ensuring they face justice."

Anyone affected by this case is encouraged to contact Tameside Child Protection Investigation Unit on 0161 856 1970 quoting Op Sarking.

Greater Manchester Victims' Services provide emotional and practical support to anyone affected by crime and are a confidential service. The service can be contacted by visiting the website on www.gmvictims.org.uk or calling 0161 200 1950.

GM is nationally recognised as a model of good practice in terms of support services available to victims.

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]

- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to boys and men in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.