Grooming Gangs Investigations in Greater Manchester

The investigation and prosecution of ‘grooming gangs’ has attracted much attention in recent weeks. Whilst police forces throughout the country are approaching investigations with renewed vigour, it is more important than ever that investigations remained balanced and prosecutions only take place when appropriate consideration has been given to whether the Charging Standard is met. 

At Olliers Solicitors, we understand that being under criminal investigation, particularly for allegations as serious as those involving sexual offences, can be one of the most distressing experiences a person can face. As a top-tier criminal defence firm with offices in Manchester and London, and a team of over 25 specialist practitioners, we are committed to ensuring that every individual is treated fairly, lawfully and with dignity, regardless of the nature of the allegations. 

In June 2025 we saw the publication of Baroness Casey’s audit on group-based child sexual exploitation in June 2025. Following the publication of the audit the government immediately confirmed that it would adopt all 12 of the audit’s recommendations. And, on 2 July 2025 His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) published its findings into Greater Manchester Police’s handling of alleged grooming gang cases. 

The Latest Developments in Greater Manchester 

On July 2nd 2025, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that it is currently conducting 59 live investigations into group-based child sexual exploitation (CSE), involving 714 victims and 1,099 suspects.  

These are complex, multi-victim, multi-offender inquiries, supported by over 300 officers and a dedicated Child Sexual Exploitation Major Investigation Team (CSE MIT) the only one of its kind in the UK.  

This follows years of criticism and scrutiny over GMP’s historic handling of grooming gang cases. The report, by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) acknowledged significant improvements in GMP’s approach since 2019 but also highlighted ongoing issues such as training gaps, inconsistent case evaluations between police, social care and health services, delays caused by poor inter-agency cooperation and a failure to support victims. 

The Casey Report: A National Wake-Up Call 

The Baroness Casey audit on group-based child sexual exploitation commissioned in response to these systemic failings, found that authorities had repeatedly failed to act on known abuse, downgraded rape charges and in some cases even blamed victims. The audit also noted a disproportionate representation of Asian and Pakistani heritage men among suspects, while criticising the authorities for being in “denial” about the implications of this data.  

Among its most urgent recommendations, the Casey report calls for: 

• A national criminal operation led by the National Crime Agency (NCA). 
• A comprehensive police strategy coordinated by the Home Office, NCA and the National Police Chiefs’ Council. 
• Upgrades to police information systems to support unique child reference numbers from the Department for Education. 
• Treating CSE investigations as serious and organised crime with the corresponding level of resources and expertise. 

The Importance of Due Process 

While the scale and seriousness of these investigations are undeniable, charging decisions must remain balanced and free from political or other pressures. Past failures to investigate and prosecute should not result in overcorrecting by pursuing cases against individuals who should not be charged. 

The Code for Crown Prosecutors sets out a clear Charging Standard and a prosecution should only proceed if there is both a ‘realistic prospect of conviction’ and it is in the public interest. 

Our Expertise in Defending Sexual Allegations 

Olliers Solicitors has a long-standing reputation for defending clients facing sexual allegations including those involving historic or group-based child sexual exploitation. We understand the emotional toll, the reputational damage, and the legal complexity of these cases. We are ranked as a top tier criminal defence firm by both the authoritative guides to the profession, namely the Legal 500 2025 and the Chambers Guide 2025 and are a Times Best Law Firm 2025. Our award-winning team (eight-time winners of the Manchester Legal Awards Crime Team of the Year) is here to provide strategic, discreet and expert representation from the earliest stages of investigation. 

Contact Olliers Solicitors 

If you or someone you know is under investigation in connection with the ongoing grooming gang inquiries, or any other sexual offence, do not delay. Early legal advice can make a critical difference to the outcome of your case. 

Contact Olliers Solicitors today for a confidential consultation. We are here to protect your rights, your future and your peace of mind.  

Olliers take a pro-active approach for individuals who are under investigation for sexual abuse allegations. Please contact us by telephone on 0161 834 1515, by email to info@olliers.com or complete the form below.