Woman Sentenced to Prison for Fabricated Rape Allegations Against Multiple Men
A 31-year-old woman has been handed a prison sentence after admitting to making false rape claims against ten men, causing significant harm to their lives and careers. Stacey Sharples, from Farnworth in Bolton, was jailed for four-and-a-half years at Bolton Crown Court on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Details of the False Allegations and Their Impact
Sharples reported the men to police between 2013 and 2019, leading to arrests, time in custody, and intimate examinations for some victims. Many of the accused lost their jobs and experienced the breakdown of long-term relationships as a direct result of her lies.
One victim, Reece Lockett, described how his life was "turned upside down" after being falsely accused. He stated, "My mum and dad disowned me. My partner of five years left me. I lost my part-time job." Lockett added that he felt isolated and ashamed due to social media messages accusing him of crimes he did not commit.
Another victim, Connor Austen, said Sharples "ruined seven years of his life," resulting in the loss of his home, partner, and employment. He emphasized, "I had to defend myself for something I never did."
Broader Consequences and Police Investigation
Greater Manchester Police noted that Sharples engaged in a "continuous, wilful making of false allegations" with full awareness of the consequences. Detective Sergeant Steven Gilliland praised the victims' strength and dignity throughout the ordeal, hoping they now feel a sense of justice.
The police investigation into Sharples began after evidence consistently contradicted her claims. Authorities highlighted that the resources spent on her false reports could have been used to investigate genuine sexual offences, underscoring how such actions undermine real victims.
Other victims shared similar stories of devastation:
- One man described losing his home and becoming homeless after his arrest.
- Astron Inman moved to Sweden to reassess his life, missing years with his children.
- Andrew Jackson was barred from seeing his daughter during the investigation, missing key milestones.
Sharples pleaded guilty to ten counts of perverting the course of justice. The case serves as a stark reminder of the severe repercussions of false accusations, while police urge genuine victims of sexual violence to continue seeking support from authorities and charities.
