Two men, David Marsh (74) and Anthony Whitehead (72), have been sentenced to prison for grooming and sexually abusing vulnerable young boys over a span of two decades.

Following a four-week trial at Minshull Street Crown Court, both men were found guilty of multiple charges including sexual abuse. The court revealed that from the 1980s to the 1990s, Marsh and Whitehead targeted boys in Rochdale, using cash, cigarettes, and alcohol as lures.

The case began in 2019 when Greater Manchester Police received a report from a victim who disclosed the abuse. Although one of the suspects was deceased, investigations confirmed the other, Marsh, was alive and active in the abuse.

Marsh and Whitehead, who were not acquainted, independently engaged in a systematic grooming campaign, exploiting the boys' troubled backgrounds to fulfill their sexual desires.

On November 27, following the trial, both were handed significant prison terms. Anna Pope, the prosecutor, stated, “Each of the defendants played his part in the sexual abuse of troubled and vulnerable young teenagers from Rochdale.”

One victim, appearing via video link, described the profound impact of the abuse on his life, recounting his experiences with Marsh upon running away from a violent home environment.

He recounted, “David was really friendly... he made me feel comfortable... little did I know he was expecting something in return for these gifts.” The cycle of abuse led him to substance addiction and petty crime.

Another victim shared how the grooming with gifts that he longed for in his youth preceded years of trauma, stating, “I got my justice the day I found out he was guilty - I cried.”

Victims expressed ongoing struggles with mental health, drug abuse, and mistrust towards men. One described feeling “like a broken man.”

The court noted Marsh's history of prior convictions, including indecent assault on a male under 16 and possession of indecent images of children. Whitehead also had convictions dating back to similar offences.

Judge Matthew Corbett-Jones highlighted the vulnerability of the victims, stating they were exploited due to their troubled lives.

Marsh received a 27-year sentence for 27 counts including indecent assault and attempted rape, while Whitehead was sentenced to seven years for six counts of indecent assault.

Detective Constable Andrea Richards commended the bravery of the victims for coming forward, stating their courage enabled the pursuit of justice against the perpetrators.

Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker reinforced the importance of protecting children, noting the police's commitment to addressing historical cases of abuse.

Wendy Chappell, District Crown Prosecutor, emphasized the severity of the crimes, ensuring that justice would be relentlessly pursued for all victims, stating, "These convictions send a very clear message that we will prosecute those who sexually exploit children."