Paedophile Mark Franklin Jailed for 18 Years for Sex Attacks on Teen Girls in Barking
A Metropolitan Police probe has landed Mark Franklin behind bars. The 56-year-old from Westrow Drive, Barking, was sentenced to 18-and-a-half years at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, 14 March. He must also sign the sex offenders’ register for life.
Investigation Uncovers Shocking Abuse of Four Teenage Girls
The investigation kicked off in April 2024 after a 15-year-old girl came forward, reporting sexual assault by someone she knew. Police built trust with the victim and uncovered Franklin’s vile crimes against three more girls.
On 22 October 2024, a jury found Franklin guilty of multiple counts, including:
- Rape of a child under 16
- Sexual assault by penetration
- Causing a child to engage in a sexual act
Detective Praises Victims’ Bravery as Franklin Shows No Remorse
Detective Constable Jodie Singer said, “Today we achieved justice for these four girls. I hope the severity of the sentence provides comfort to them and their families. Franklin showed no remorse, even filming his horrific assaults, believing he would never be caught. The victims’ strength and cooperation were vital in securing his conviction.”
Drugs, Alcohol and Disturbing Confessions in Court
Between August 2023 and January 2024, Franklin plied the girls, aged 15 and 16, with drugs and alcohol at his home before assaulting them. He callously described their drugged reactions as ‘incredible’ and ‘absolutely breathtaking’.
In court, Franklin tried to brush off his crimes as ‘just a bit of fun’. Police also found messages where he declared a twisted ‘love’ for one victim, calling her beautiful and admitting to a secret crush.
