Bolton Man Locked Up for 13 Years Over Shocking Child Sex Abuse
Stephen Newmarch from Broomfield Close, Bolton, has been jailed for 13 years. The Manchester Crown Court found him guilty of 15 sexual offences against two victims dating back to the early 2000s.
Foster Carer’s Dark Past Exposed
Newmarch abused his position as an Educational Welfare Officer and foster carer in Bury to target vulnerable children. Both victims, now in their 30s, were foster children under his care. Their gut-wrenching testimonies in court revealed the chilling details of the abuse.
One victim bravely came forward about an incident at just 14 years old. During a holiday with Newmarch and others, she reported inappropriate touching. Shockingly, Newmarch dismissed it as “play fighting” when confronted.
Justice Served After Years of Silence
The courage of the victims helped bring Newmarch to justice. Alongside his prison sentence, he will be on the Sex Offender Register for life and subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), ensuring public safety.
Detective Sergeant Ellie Sproat of Bolton CID said, “Through their courage, we have removed a prolific child sex offender from the streets of Greater Manchester. While today’s sentence cannot erase their past, we hope it will provide some measure of healing and closure.”
Call for Other Victims to Speak Up
Detective Sergeant Sproat urged anyone abused by Newmarch to come forward. “If something doesn’t feel right, report it,” she stressed. The GMP is committed to taking all claims seriously and investigating thoroughly.
Anyone with information can contact Greater Manchester Police by calling 101 or using the 1 Chat function at www.gmp.police.uk. The police promise to listen and protect vulnerable individuals from further harm.
