A couple has been sentenced to a cumulative 28 years in prison for historical sexual offences against three minors.
Claire Moores (15/03/1977) was sentenced to 13 years, while her husband, Craig Moores (25/07/1971), received a 15-year prison term today, Tuesday 13 June 2023, at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court for several child sex offences against two girls between 2002 and 2008.
The pair from the Stockport region were apprehended and indicted in August 2020, subsequently found guilty at trial of 15 accusations presented against them.
Craig Moores was charged with four counts of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 18, two counts of sexual activity with a girl under the age of 18 and one count of indecency with a child under 18 by penetration.
Claire Moores was charged with three counts of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 18.
Claire Moores and Craig Moores were jointly charged with two counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, one count of sexual activity with a child and one count of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 18. Against a third victim they were charged with one count of cruelty to a person under the age of 16.
Claire Moores and Craig Moores were also charged with causing a boy under the age of 15 to engage in sexual activity and administering a substance with intent to stupefy to allow sexual activity but were found not guilty.
Police were informed in May 2019 of non-recent sexual offences concerning two girls in Stockport.
The court heard how two girls, who have not been named due to legal reasons, reported being given substances prior to being sexually abused by the husband and wife. The third victim was exposed to the presence and consumption of controlled drugs and sexual activity.
Detective Sergeant Shona Mulvey, of GMP’s Stockport Criminal Investigation Department, said: “Claire and Craig Moores’ crimes are truly abhorrent and today marks the culmination of many years’ worth of investigation.
“While their sentencings cannot take away from the years of suffering they have caused their victims, we hope it provides some solace in the fact that they are no longer at large and able to harm children.
“I must thank the victim and their family for having the strength and courage to come forward and allow us to fully investigate this case.
“We encourage anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault, or knows someone who has, to come forward and speak to the police. We will listen to you and we will investigate.”
Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via 101 or through the Live Chat function on the website, www.gmp.police.uk. Reports can also be made anonymously through the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Remember – if in doubt report it
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 help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk
- 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.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 111 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.