Description
A Derbyshire man has been jailed for more than 20 years after he was found guilty of sexually abusing two children.
Mark Kearney was arrested in November 2024 after the abuse was reported to police. He was swiftly charged and remanded into custody.
In respect of the first victim, the 55-year-old denied two counts of rape of a child under 13, assault by penetration of a child under 13, incite a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, assault by touching of a child under 13, and two counts of cause a child to look at an image of sexual activity.
He also denied assault by penetration of a child under 13, assault by touching of a child under 13, and cause a child under 13 to look at an image of sexual activity for the second victim.
He was sent to trial in April 2025 and was found guilty on all counts.
Kearney, of no fixed address, appeared at Derby Crown Court for sentencing on 26 February 2026.
He was ordered to serve a 24-year jail term by a judge, with an extended licence period of six years on release.
Kearney is also required to register with police indefinitely.
Detective Constable Danielle Lynch said:
“This has been an incredibly distressing case, and I want to commend the courage shown by both victims in coming forward and supporting the investigation.
“Their strength has ensured that a dangerous offender has been brought to justice.
“We will always take reports of child sexual abuse extremely seriously, and we are committed to doing everything we can to protect vulnerable children and pursue those who cause them harm.”