Manchester Man Jailed for Plotting to Rape 12-Week-Old Baby
A 71-year-old man from Manchester has been locked up for six years and eight months after arranging to sexually abuse a 12-week-old infant. Mark Whalley was caught red-handed by the National Crime Agency (NCA) right in the foyer of a Manchester city centre hotel, where he planned to carry out the horrific attack.
Whalley Busted After NCA Sting
The NCA’s swoop came following crucial intelligence from Norwegian police. Whalley’s sickening chats on the encrypted app Wickr exposed his twisted interest in children under 12. He had also shared vile indecent images and detailed the extreme abuse he wanted to inflict.
Further investigation revealed Whalley was messaging someone who claimed to have a baby. Together, they planned how the abuse would take place once they met.
Caught Before Horror Could Unfold
Officers arrested Whalley just as he tried to enter the hotel lift. He initially lied, claiming the meeting was an affair, but he later admitted guilt. The charges include making and distributing indecent images of children and arranging a child sex offence.
Already Under Investigation When He Struck
Shockingly, Whalley was still being investigated for possessing indecent images from an earlier 2021 probe when he arranged this vile abuse. He was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court on 23 October 2023 for all his crimes.
“Whalley’s intentions were extremely dangerous,” said Daniel Waywell, NCA Operations Manager. “This case highlights the importance of international cooperation to catch offenders before they harm children.”
“We remain committed to protecting children and bringing predators like Whalley to justice.”
