Man, 64, raped child after they passed out at his Gateshead home

Andrew Mackay, 64, invited the child into his home, in High Spen near Gateshead, before offering them alcohol and waiting until they fell unconscious before committing the serious sexual assaults.

But after his victim had the courage to report the incident, in September 2022, officers in Northumbria Police’s Safeguarding Department immediately launched an investigation.

The following day Mackay was arrested and interviewed, denying having committed any offence.

(Image: Northumbria Police) He was subsequently charged with two counts of rape and two counts of sexual assault.

Despite maintaining his denials at trial, a jury found him guilty on all four counts following a week-long hearing at Newcastle Crown Court, in November.

He appeared at the same court on Monday (January 6) where he was handed the 14-year sentence.

(Image: Northumbria Police) Mackay was also made subject to restrictions under a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, a restraining order relating to his victim and will remain on the Sex Offenders’ Register, all for life. 

Detective Constable Joanne Newton, who led the police investigation, praised the survivor for speaking out, saying: “I’d like to commend the immeasurable bravery of the survivor.

“Their courage and determination has helped put a dangerous offender behind bars.

“Mackay was a manipulative predator who used alcohol to take advantage of a child and it is only right that he is now serving a significant length of time in prison for his deplorable actions.”

She added: “This was a complex case with many factors of evidence building, including medical experts, forensic scientists and specialised search teams.

“We hope the outcome sends a clear message to others who have committed or are considering committing these types of crimes.

“We will do everything in our power to bring you to justice.

“I would urge anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse, or wants to share information, to get in touch.

“Please know that we will listen to you.”

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Victims can access support or find out more information on disclosing sexual assault or rape, by visiting the Northumbria Police’s website.

Anyone who has experienced any form of sexual abuse, whether recent or non-recent, can also send the force a direct message on social media.

But those unable to report by those means, should call 101.

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