GMP make 70th arrest in pursuit of suspected non-recent child sexual offenders in Greater Manchester
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) made their 70th arrest in Operation Green Jacket, a multi-agency investigation into non-recent child sexual exploitation in South Manchester during the early 2000s. A 77-year-old retired social worker from Manchester City Council was arrested on suspicion of indecent assault dating back to 1994. The operation, led by GMP's Child Sexual Exploitation Major Investigation Team (CSE MIT), focuses on identifying victims, supporting survivors, and pursuing offenders. The first trial under this operation, involving Christopher Oates, is set to begin in March 2025. Authorities emphasize victim support and justice.
Seventieth Arrest Made in Operation Green Jacket Child Abuse Investigation
A 77-year-old former social worker was arrested Thursday morning in Chadderton, Oldham, on suspicion of indecent assault as part of Operation Green Jacket - the massive investigation into child sexual exploitation in South Manchester during the early 2000s.
The arrest marks the 70th since the multi-agency operation launched. At the time of the alleged 1994 offense, the suspect worked for Manchester City Council. He has since retired and no longer holds a position of trust, according to investigators. He remains in custody for questioning.
The Child Sexual Exploitation Major Investigation Team leads Operation Green Jacket, working with partner agencies to identify victims and suspects while providing support to survivors. While securing criminal convictions remains a goal, investigators emphasize that ensuring victims receive appropriate support takes precedence.
The investigation reaches a critical milestone next month when the first trial begins March 3, 2025, at Manchester Crown Square Crown Court. Christopher Oates, 44, of Stockport, faces six charges including three counts of engaging in underage sex with a 14-year-old girl, two counts of intentionally causing sexual exploitation of minors, and one firearms offense.
“Our focus rightly remains on our victims and survivors who have bravely come forward to speak to us about what they experienced,” stated Detective Chief Inspector Zaheer Ali of the CSE MIT. “It takes such courage for victims and survivors of sexual abuse to speak up, which is why it is so important that we work closely with a variety of specialist partners to ensure they are at the heart of everything we do.”
Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, confirmed the council’s cooperation with Greater Manchester Police: “We are working closely to ensure that no stone is left unturned in seeking justice for victims of child sexual exploitation or other abuse and relentlessly pursuing perpetrators.”
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