CrimeMan and woman jailed for roles in sexually abusing a child

Man and woman jailed for roles in sexually abusing a child

An Ashton woman has been jailed for inciting a man to sexually abuse a 4-year-old boy.

Naomi O’Brien (31) (pictured) received a total of four years and three months in prison, with a four years, four month Sexual Harm Prevention Order and Sex Offender Notification Requirements for life.

Jonathan Walker (33) of Pontsticill, Merthyr Tydfil, was found guilty of sexually abusing a 4-year-old boy, along with engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child and possession of indecent images. He was sentenced to 12-and-a-half years in prison.

During the investigation, chat was also discovered between Walker and O’Brien, indicating a sexual interest in children.

O’Brien incited Walker to sexually abuse the victim on multiple occasions in March 2023.

Following a complex investigation, and in conjunction with South Wales Police, Walker was arrested for multiple offences.

O’Brien pleaded guilty to three counts of intentionally encouraging and assisting another to commit a sexual assault against a child, two counts of intentionally encouraging and assisting another to engage in sexual activity in the presence of a child and engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child.

“We can bring justice”

DI Marsden, of GMP, said: “Firstly, our thoughts remain with the victim and their family having gone through such a terrible ordeal.

“Following a tenacious and lengthy investigation of 1,865 messages, our dedicated team was able to prove that the female suspect’s chats were not simply a case of role play or fantasy – she had knowledge that the male had an interest in sexually abusing a young boy on the direction of her. 

“This is a significant result for what is a very vulnerable and innocent 4-year-old child who was subjected to multiple counts of abuse, but also for all other children in the community who could have been subject to similar offending by a predatory female who was inciting others to commit acts of sexual harm against the most vulnerable in society.

“I hope the sentence sends a strong message to the public that we will pursue all available lines of enquiry to ensure we can bring justice to victims of serious sexual assaults.”

Helen Greaney
Helen Greaney
I'm a journalist with more than 18 years' experience on local, regional and national newspapers, as well as PR and digital marketing. Crime and the courts is my specialist area but I'm also keen to hear your stories concerning Manchester and the greater North West region.
Latest

Top Software Development Companies for UK Businesses in 2026

Some UK companies pour money into digital projects that go nowhere, often because they picked the wrong technology partner. The British software development market...

Residence Inn by Marriott Piccadilly Manchester Strengthens Leadership Team with Two Senior Appointments

MANCHESTER, UK. June 15th, 2026 - The Residence Inn by Marriott Piccadilly Manchester, a leading luxury extended-stay hotel in the city, has appointed two...

Father’s Day gift guide 2026: Best gifts for every type of dad

Father’s Day (June 21) is the perfect time to celebrate the people who make everyday moments feel special.  Whether he enjoys slow mornings with coffee,...

Building safety compliance: A growing concern for developers and investors

Building safety now sits at the centre of property development and investment decisions across the UK. Increased scrutiny from authorities and greater awareness among residents have...
Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Don't miss

Why Creative Judgment Now Matters More Than AI Access

WANDSWORTH, London. June 10th, 2026 - BearJam is highlighting how storytelling ability, aesthetic judgment, and human direction are becoming the key factors that separate...

Altum HR shortlisted for national CIPD People Management Award

Greater Manchester HR consultancy recognised in Best CSR/ESG initiative category, with Team Member Christopher Brennan also shortlisted for the CIPD Outstanding Student Award MANCHESTER, UK....

Manchester charity helping people with rare genetic condition to receive key donation

A total of £1,548 has been raised to support a vital health charity in Greater Manchester. Worsley-based charity Cure Usher Syndrome will receive the contribution...

Top Software Development Companies for UK Businesses in 2026

Some UK companies pour money into digital projects that go nowhere, often because they picked the wrong technology partner. The British software development market...

More News

How to make sure your business bounces back after a cybersecurity attack

You’ll rarely see a cyber breach coming. In a matter of moments, everything you've built could be put at risk, leaving you to pick up...

Teenager arrested after proactive drug dealing operation in Chorlton

A teenage boy was arrested by South Manchester police following a proactive plain clothes operation to combat drug dealing in the area. Officers headed to...

Fake ‘luxury’ goods worth £3 million found in trading standards raid

More than 5,000 fake luxury goods worth £3.1 million have been uncovered in Bury by trading standards officers. The huge haul was discovered in raids...