Hartlepool man set to stand trial next year over 19 alleged sex charges against children

Mark Sorby, 44, entered not guilty pleas to each of the charges when they were put to him during a hearing at Teesside Crown Court on Monday, June 28.

They involve alleged touching of the young complainants in a sexual nature and span a period of around nine years.

Due to a backlog in cases within the justice system, in part due to Covid, Sorby was told the earliest the trial will be able to go ahead is June of next year.

It is due to last a minimum of five days. But some of the evidence and cross examination by the defence will take place before then in September.

Judge Jonathan Carroll, said: “Your main trial I’m afraid to say will not take place until the 20th of June next year.”

Sorby, of Ettrick Walk, Hartlepool, was granted unconditional bail.

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