© Tom Blewitt – Predator Awareness
More than two decades after the abuse took place, justice has finally caught up with a Banbury man who preyed on vulnerable young girls in Bicester in the 1990s.
Mark Preedy, 62, of Mascord Road, was sentenced to 23 years in prison on friday (18 July) following his conviction on ten counts related to child sexual abuse. The charges included six counts of indecent assault, two counts of rape, and two counts of attempted rape. His guilty verdict came after a six-day trial at Oxford Crown Court earlier this month.
The offences took place between 1994 and 1997 and involved two victims, aged just twelve and thirteen at the time. Preedy targeted them with calculated cruelty, supplying alcohol to lower their defenses before carrying out sustained sexual assaults. The second victim was identified during the initial phase of the investigation, revealing a broader pattern of exploitation.
Police charged Preedy in 2023 after new evidence emerged, reflecting the tenacity of Thames Valley detectives and the enduring courage of the victims—who chose to speak out after years of silence. Their testimony was instrumental in holding Preedy accountable.
A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said:
“This sentencing marks the end of a long and painful journey for the survivors. We commend their bravery and hope this outcome brings some measure of closure and healing.”
Victims speak
The first victim said:
“Speaking the truth matters profoundly. Being heard and believed is important for anyone who has experienced being violated as a child. I am deeply grateful to have received this from Thames Valley Police, in particular DC Sam Lea, for her unwavering and steadfast hard work in bringing this perpetrator to justice. I thank all involved in the process of this case. I encourage anyone who has experienced abuse to come forward and talk to the police, you are not alone and you will be heard.”
The second victim said:
“For over 30 years, I have carried the weight of something no child should ever have to endure. Mark Preedy did not just steal my childhood, he stole the person I could have become. The trauma he inflicted shaped every part of my life, casting a long shadow over the years that followed.
“Living with this has not been easy, and it never truly leaves you. But today, after decades of silence and pain, justice has finally been served. I am deeply grateful to Thames Valley Police for their unwavering patience, understanding, and support in bringing this case to court. Their dedication made it possible for truth to be heard.
“I know I am not the only one. At the time, I was aware there were other victims and I carry a heavy sense of guilt wondering how many more may have suffered in silence over the years. To anyone still living with the pain of abuse, please know that you are not alone. Speaking out is terrifying, but it is also powerful. There is hope, and there is justice, even if it takes time.”
Police Statement
Detective Constable, Sam Lea, of the Management of Sexual or Violent Offenders Unit based at Banbury, said:
“Thames Valley Police takes sexual offences against children very seriously, whether this is a recent offence or something which has happened many years ago.
“The victims in this case bravely came forward and reported what had happened to them.
“It is because of their courage and support throughout the police investigation that Mark Preedy has been brought to justice.
“I would like to reassure the public that we will always look to prosecute anyone who commits sexual offences against children, recent or non-recent. You will be supported, no matter what the passage of time, and we will bring offenders to justice.
“Anyone who wishes to speak to us can call 101 or make a report on our website. Further information about the support available can also be found on our website.”
Alongside the prison term, Preedy has been handed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, designed to safeguard others from future harm. He must also pay a victim surcharge.
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