Man charged with sexually exploiting girls as part of relentless investigations into non-recent offences

Detectives investigating non-recent child sexual exploitation in south Manchester have charged their first suspect with sexual offences against two teenage girls.

Christopher Oates (44), of Stockport, is one of 57 arrests as part of our multi-agency investigation – codenamed Green Jacket – launched in May 2019.

Our Child Sexual Exploitation Major Investigation Team has charged him with six offences involving girls, then aged 14 and 17, between May 2004 and February 2005.

He is due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 12 September 2024 accused of:

• Three counts of engaging in underage sex with a 14-year-old girl;
• One count of intentionally causing a 14-year-old girl to be sexually exploited;
• One count of intentionally causing a 17-year-old girl to be sexually exploited;
• One count of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

Our work on this investigation continues and will not relent until we have explored all available lines of enquiry to bring suspects to court and to bring justice for survivors.

We will not allow the passage of time to become a barrier in the pursuit of justice.

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 male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.