In two exclusive reports published by the Daily Express and in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live, solicitor and managing director Marcus Johnstone has provided expert comment and analysis on the Rochdale grooming gang case.
Six men found guilty of multiple historic child sexual offences against two girls in Rochdale were sentenced yesterday, being handed a combined custodial sentence of 175 years’ imprisonment. Their offences included rape, assault by penetration, and indecency with a child, with the highest sentence of 35 years being handed to the ‘ringleader’, Mohammed Zahid.
Questioned by the BBC’s Chris Wharburton as to the nature of organised child sexual abuse, Marcus explained that gangs like these operate ‘mafia-style’, acting with impunity and with little historic intervention by the police.
‘They do operate as a type of mafiosa-style organisation, operating in their own local community and largely untouched by the authorities,’ he said.
Commenting for the Daily Express, Marcus explained that the sentences given to the six men are ‘consistent’ with the severity of their crimes, but it is likely that none will actually serve their full sentences. Discussing the ways historic organised child sex abuse cases progress, he added that the ‘nature’ of these offences make investigating and prosecuting them very complex.
In an additional exclusive report, Marcus outlined the ways gangs involved in child sexual abuse have evolved since the Rochdale offences took place, warning readers that ‘predatory men’ now use social media and online messaging platforms to access, groom and abuse children outside their immediate area.
You can listen to the full interview on playback on BBC Radio 5 and read both reports by visiting our press and media portal.