Michael Murray, a 39-year-old resident of Prescott Street in Halifax, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for a series of heinous crimes involving drugs and child sexual exploitation. The sentencing took place at Bradford Crown Court on Thursday, June 20.
The Offences
Murray was found guilty of two counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and one count of sexual assault. His actions targeted a teenage victim whom he groomed over an extended period. To facilitate his sexual offences, Murray plied the victim with prescription medication.
In addition to the sexual offences, Murray admitted to 32 drug-related charges. These offences included possession with intent to supply Class A, B, and C drugs. When officers initially arrested him in connection with the sex crimes, they discovered a significant stash of prescription drugs at his residence. Subsequent searches revealed substantial quantities of cocaine and amphetamines, consistent with drug supply activities. Murray was also found in possession of cannabis.
Sentencing
Appearing before the court for sentencing on Friday, June 21, Murray received a total sentence of 14 years. This includes 11 years for sexual offences and an additional three years to run consecutively for drug offences.
Police Response
Detective Constable Riah Nicholson of the Calderdale District Safeguarding Team expressed gratitude to the victim for her bravery in coming forward. She emphasised the severity of Murray’s crimes and urged other victims of sexual offences or abuse to report incidents to the police. “You will be listened to and taken seriously,” she assured, “and we will do all we can to bring perpetrators to justice.”
