A 55-year-old paedophile has been sentenced to 24 years in jail after he was found guilty of sexually abusing two children in an "incredibly distressing case".

Mark Kearney was arrested in November 2024 after the abuse was reported to police. He was swiftly charged and remanded in custody, and the evil Derbyshire man of no fixed address stood trial on multiple counts of horrifying sexual assault against two children in April last year, where he denied all charges. Police have commended the bravery of both victims for coming forward and supporting the investigation.

Kearney faced charges for two counts of rape of a child under 13, assault by penetration of a child under 13, and inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity in regard to one victim.

The 55-year-old also faced a charge of assault by touching a child under 13, and two counts of causing a child to look at an image of sexual activity.

In regard to a second victim, who also had not reached teenage years, the paedophile faced charges for assault by penetration of a child under 13, assault by touching of a child under 13, and causing a child under 13 to look at an image of sexual activity.

Kearney was found guilty on all counts.

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."

During his sentencing at Derby Crown Court on February 26, 2026, a judge ordered Kearney to serve a 24-year jail term, with an extended licence period of six years on release. He is also required to register with police indefinitely.

DC Lynch added: "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."

Victims of sexual abuse or harassment can issue a report to Derbyshire Police through an online form. It allows people to submit reports anonymously.

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