A respected family GP has been exposed as a predatory sex offender after being sentenced to five years imprisonment for assaulting a vulnerable young boy with a genetic syndrome.
David Mackle, 74, who practised as a doctor in Northampton for decades, abused the trust of a family who considered him a close friend to prey on their child over a sustained period.
Systematic Abuse of Trust
The court heard how Mackle used his position as a trusted medical professional and family acquaintance to gain access to the boy, who has a genetic condition that made him particularly vulnerable.
Rather than providing care and protection as his medical oath demanded, Mackle instead subjected the child to repeated sexual assaults that have left lasting psychological trauma.
Decades of Medical Practice Shattered
Mackle had enjoyed a long career in medicine, working as a general practitioner in the Northampton area and building a reputation as a dependable family doctor.
This respectable facade crumbled when allegations surfaced about his predatory behaviour towards the young boy, leading to a thorough police investigation and subsequent criminal charges.
Justice Served at Northampton Crown Court
At Northampton Crown Court, Judge Rebecca Crane condemned Mackle's "breach of trust" and the "devastating impact" his crimes had on the victim and his family.
The five-year sentence reflects the severity of the offences and the vulnerability of the child targeted by the disgraced doctor.
Medical Community Reacts with Horror
The case has sent shockwaves through the medical community in Northamptonshire, where Mackle was once a respected figure.
Local health authorities have moved swiftly to ensure Mackle will never practise medicine again, striking him from the medical register to protect future patients.
The sentencing brings some closure to the victim's family, though they acknowledge the long road to recovery that lies ahead for their son after suffering such profound betrayal by someone they considered a friend and healer.
