Latest Offenders Merseyside

Description

Pervert sex attacker targeted girl on train and said 'you're game'

Nathan Russell, a 28-year-old man with no fixed abode, sexually assaulted a 16-year-old girl on a train in March 2020. While intoxicated, he boarded the train at Leasowe station, engaged the girl in conversation after his friend left, mentioned his prison history, and proceeded to stroke her thigh for about 10 minutes, attempt to kiss her (which she dodged), and touch her sexually over her clothes. He asked if she was "game," implying sexual interest, despite her refusals. The girl moved his hand away, and he did not persist further.

Russell has a extensive criminal record with 40 previous convictions for 59 offenses, including battery, prior sexual assault (touching a 17-year-old girl at a train station in 2018, leading to a seven-year sex offender registration), and drunk and disorderly conduct. At the time of the train assault, he was on bail for an earlier January 2020 incident where he punched and kicked a man in Birkenhead after being denied alcohol or money. He also breached sex offender register rules by failing to report weekly as required after declaring homelessness.

In a victim impact statement, the girl described severe effects: PTSD, sleep issues, fear of further attacks, avoidance of going out alone, and ongoing therapy, noting a shift from being sociable to withdrawn.

At Liverpool Crown Court on July 20, 2020, Russell pleaded guilty to sexual assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and breaching the register. His defense highlighted his alcohol dependency, remorse (calling his actions "disgusting"), vulnerability after his mother's 2017 death, and unstable living situation ("sofa to sofa"). Judge David Swinnerton sentenced him to 28 months in prison (half on license), a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, and 10 years on the sex offenders register.

Update 2025-09-11

A convicted sex offender is back behind bars after stealing food from a Wirral branch of B&M.

Nathan Russell, 33, pleaded guilty at Liverpool Magistrates Court to charges of theft from a shop and failing to comply with the notification requirements of his sexual harm prevention order (SHPO).

The court heard that Russell, of no fixed abode, stole food worth £34.22 from B&M in Wirral on Friday, September 5, 2025.

At the time of the offence, Russell was subject to both a community order (CO) and a suspended sentence order (SSO).

He also admitted failing without reasonable excuse to comply with the notification requirements of his SHPO by not notifying police at Birkenhead Police Station within three days of his release from custody.

The magistrates sentenced him to eight weeks in prison for his latest offences.

Russell was made subject to a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order after sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl on a train in Wirral five years ago.

The court heard how, on Sunday, March 1, 2020, at around 8pm, his 16-year-old victim spotted Russell carrying a case of beer, swigging from a can, and arguing with a member of station staff at Leasowe station as she waited to board her train.

Russell and another man, whom the victim assumed to be his friend, boarded the train and sat in the same carriage as the girl.

When Russell’s friend left the train, Russell switched seats to move closer to the victim and began engaging her in conversation.

During the conversation, the girl began to feel increasingly uncomfortable as Russell touched her inappropriately—an ordeal that lasted over 10 minutes.

His terrified victim was afraid to challenge Russell, as he had told her he had served time in prison.

In a previous incident, Russell had touched a 17-year-old girl at a train station, which resulted in a conviction and him signing the sex offenders register for seven years.

He was sentenced to 28 months in prison for the 2020 offence.

Description

John Ahern, 73, of St Anne Street, Birkenhead, has been jailed for 19 years at Manchester Crown Court for sexually abusing two young boys decades ago.

He was found guilty by a jury of eight counts of indecent assault and one further sex crime charge.

Ahern manipulated the boys by building trust through discussions about music and outings, before indecently assaulting them at various locations, including houses and public areas in Manchester, Bolton, and Tameside.

The investigation by Greater Manchester Police began in March 2019 after the victims reported the abuse. Ahern denied all accusations during interviews and showed no remorse throughout the proceedings. Following a thorough investigation, charges were secured and prosecuted.

Description

A man casually told his wife he had been having sex with a teenage girl - and she alerted police, a court heard.

Paul Robinson's wife was said to have been 'horrified' at his confession, which he disclosed 'as if it was quite normal', a judge was told.

Robinson, a former care worker, then attempted to blame his victim by maintaining that he had been 'manipulated' into his actions.

Liverpool Crown Court heard on Thursday that his offending came to light after he 'disclosed to his wife that there had been sexual activity' between him and the teenager. The 38-year-old, of no fixed address but formerly of Stockbridge Village, made the confession 'as a matter of fact, as if it was quite normal'.

But Philip Astbury, prosecuting, described how his wife was left 'horrified' and contacted the police. Officers discovered a string of messages between Robinson and the girl.

While the complainant was initially "afraid to speak" to detectives, she later detailed how he had plied her with cannabis before "touching her inappropriately", reports The Echo.

Robinson has one previous conviction, receiving a community order in 2020 for disclosing private sexual images with intent to cause distress. Stella Hayden, defending, told the court: "This will be his first custodial sentence. During the course of his interview with probation, he was able to articulate a degree of remorse. He described being disgusted by his actions. He did express shame for the serious harm that he has caused.

"In custody, he has been referred for therapy and appreciates that he must work to address his offending behaviour. He is committed to engaging with all of the intervention that is offered to him. One can only hope that the intervention and rehabilitative work will address the risk that has been identified.

"The pre-sentence report details much of the defendant's background. The phrase used is his combined experience of trauma, including the loss of both of his parents at a relatively young age. He has suffered a decline in his mental and physical health in the past few years. The report discusses attempts on his own life and self harm."

Robinson admitted six sexual offences. Appearing in the dock wearing a peach coloured t-shirt, he was jailed for six years and eight months and told to sign the sex offenders' register for life.

Sentencing, Judge Neil Flewitt KC referenced Robinson giving an account to the author of his pre-sentence report that the victim had instigated the sexual activity herself and claimed that he had been "manipulated" by her.

He said of this:

"If you have maintained that position, I would not have accepted it.

"This came to light when you told your wife about what had been happening. You groomed her through the messaging and the provision of cannabis. I note that, although you have been diagnosed as having a mild to moderate learning disability, you have been employed, primarily in the care sector. I take on board the submission that you have a limited criminal record, with only one previous conviction for a dissimilar sexual offence.

"This is your first custodial offence, and you have been making use of your time in custody. It is said that you have expressed remorse, but that is tempered with your attempts to blame your victim. She is trying to rebuild her life. She is trying to put all of this behind her."

Description

A man has been jailed for ten years for rape and a domestic-related offence against a woman in Cronton.

Joshua Chesters, 35, of Cronton Road, in Cronton, was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court today (Thursday 4 September) after he was found guilty of rape and controlling and coercive behaviour.

In February of this year, Chesters raped a woman inside an address in Cronton.

The victim sustained multiple injuries and reported the incident to police once Chesters left the property the following day.

He was arrested and subsequently charged with the offences.

As well as a prison sentence, Chesters is also subjected to a 12-year restraining order and placed on the Sex Offender Register for life.

Detective Constable Tomas Bath said:

“This was an appalling case of sexual violence and I hope this sentencing brings the victim some comfort.

“Despite this woman’s horrific experience, she bravely contacted police to report what happened.

"I hope this sentencing helps others come forward and shows what will happen to their perpetrators.”

Description

A woman has been jailed after committing abhorrent sex attacks against a teenage boy.

"Obsessive and rude" Anne Lunt subjected her victim to acts of violence during her disturbing and predatory crimes.

The teen was left "scared to tell anybody" about his harrowing experiences for years.

While the depraved community café volunteer still "maintains her vehement denial of the offences", her victim told the court: "I think this abuse will live with me for the rest of my life."

Lunt wept as she was jailed for four-and-a-half years, Liverpool Echo reports.

A judge said she had "distorted views about what is acceptable" and labelled her "someone who wishes to be in charge and do as she wishes".

He described her courtroom tears as "a brief and temporary episode of her thinking about somebody else".

Liverpool Crown Court heard that Lunt performed sex acts on the complainant on two occasions.

She called her victim a "dirty b******" and hit him following the first incident.

Lunt continued to touch him "despite his protestations" during the second ordeal.

The 59-year-old was also said to have "told him that she could do what she wanted" as she subjected him to the assaults.

Lunt, of Sefton Moss Villas in Litherland, wiped away tears as prosecutor David Watson read the boy's statement: "I get a lot of flashbacks of what she did to me."

He added: "The flashbacks are painful and upsetting. They range from me being angry and snappy with people, but more often than not make me feel suicidal.

"For years, I struggled to tell anybody [about the abuse]. As I got older, I knew what she did was wrong.

"However, I was so scared to tell anybody. I hated having a secret. I hope I can move on, but I think this abuse will live with me for the rest of my life."

Lunt has one previous conviction for assault in 2021 after biting her husband on the finger.

Defending, Rachel Oakdene said: "Your honour is aware of the background of these proceedings, particularly in relation to mental health issues and, perhaps, the vulnerability of the defendant.

"On a more positive note, there are references in support of Mrs Lunt. It is clear that people close to Mrs Lunt have taken time and effort to support her and do, perhaps, show a positive side to her character.

"In relation to her conviction, Mrs Lunt maintains her vehement denial of the offences but understands that she, today, falls to be sentenced in accordance with the jury's verdict.

"Before she was remanded into custody, she was residing alone. She was not in employment, but was in receipt of state benefits."

Ms Oakdene outlined how Lunt had previously worked in a chemical laboratory for 22 years.

She said: "She has no similar convictions. This is Mrs Lunt's first time in custody.

"To her credit, there have been no adjudications or negative behaviours recorded against her by the prison authorities. She is using her time constructively.

"Dealing with mental health issues, there is no clear evidence of severe illness but, over the years, there has been a decline in her mental wellbeing.

"There was an anxiety episode in 2021 which contributed to significant difficulties and her marital breakdown.

"Mrs Lunt is aware that, for the first time, she faces a custodial sentence. I simply ask the court to impose a sentence which does not have a crushing effect on Mrs Lunt, which will allow her some hope for the future and which will allow her to move on.

"Intervention will allow her to put this very sorry episode behind her as soon as possible."

Lunt was unanimously found guilty of two sexual offences following a trial.

Sentencing, Judge Denis Watson KC said: "Suffice to say that this all comes about because you are someone with a very domineering character, with very fixed but distorted views about what is acceptable.

"Basically, you are someone who wishes to be in control, in charge and do as you wish.

"You refuse to consider the effect on [others], which has had a substantial and very harmful impact on [the victim].

"There was perhaps just a glimmer when his statement was read out, as I observed you. Perhaps, just for a moment, you were concerned with him rather than yourself.

"If that is right, that is but a brief and temporary episode of you thinking about somebody else."

Speaking about a psychological report, the judge said: "The report refers to a decline in your mental health and your refusal to engage with support, your distrust of professionals and evidence of paranoia.

"You are somebody who is demanding and rude. There is evidence of obsessiveness and a need to control. There are common themes that occur, not just in reports but with features of the case.

"You have what is described as a controlling temperament. Everything I saw at the trial would lead me to endorse and confirm these assessments of your character.

"There is but one conviction on your record for a physical assault of your husband, a conviction borne of exactly the same determination by you to be in control.

"There is much evidence that you are, in fact, a dangerous offender, but your age and limited antecedents have persuaded me that it is not necessary to pass an extended sentence.

"I have not overlooked the references from those who know you. Those short documents show a different side of you.

"Your contribution to a community café and others outside of the café are, I am afraid, of limited weight against the controlling, obsessive elements of your character and temperament that are exhibited in your behaviour towards [the victim]."

Lunt was also handed a restraining order preventing her from contacting her victim for 10 years.

She will be required to sign the sex offenders' register for life.

Description

A despicable rapist attacked an unconscious woman repeatedly, leaving her feeling "so alone and trapped in her own thoughts". Lennox Smith, 24, assaulted the victim multiple times, causing her to fall pregnant before enduring devastating baby loss.

We can confirm that a St Helens man has been jailed for six years and nine months after carrying out serious sexual offences against a woman.

Lennox Smith, 24, of Upland Road, in Thatto Heath, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court today (Friday 1 August) after pleading guilty to two counts of rape and sexual assault.

The offences occurred between May and June 2023 at an address in St Helens.

As well as a prison sentence, Smith was also issued with an indefinite Restraining Order not to contact the victim and is on the Sex Offender register for life.

In a Victim Personal Statement (VPS), the woman said:

“This has had a huge impact on my life. My whole life got destroyed. I had no control over my life or my body. I was disrespected to the highest levels. Physically I have never felt so weak in my whole life. Even though I have support from family and RASA (Rape and Sexual Abuse Support) and the officers on my case, I have never felt so alone and trapped in my own thoughts. My family tell me I’m different now and I’m not the same happy person that I used to be.

“I’m trying to accept there are parts of me I will never get back and trying my best to focus on each day as it comes. I’m ready to take my life back. I’m ready to become the best strongest version of myself I possibly can. I’m ready to focus on rebuilding my life properly again and finding myself again. I’m ready to put Lennox Smith in the past.”

Detective Sergeant Bob Sandham, who led on the case, said:

“I would firstly like to commend the victim for having the courage to report these offences and I hope the sentencing of Smith provides her with some comfort.

“This has been a complex and lengthy investigation, but thankfully we were able to provide enough evidence that Smith had no choice but to admit what he’d done.

“I hope today’s result shows that violence against women and girls will simply not be tolerated in Merseyside and we will work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.

“We are committed to protecting victims of sexual offences, and anyone who reports an incident to us will be safeguarded and supported throughout the investigation by Specially Trained Officers and Sexual Violence Advocates who will provide all the relevant support.

“Anyone that has been a victim of a sexual offence, is concerned for the safety of someone they know or suspects someone to be engaging in this criminal activity, should come forward and speak to us.

“We have a team of dedicated staff who will expertly and compassionately deal with your reports and we will do everything we can to bring offenders to justice.”

Description

A predatory sex offender abused a missing 15-year-old girl after encountering her alone at night. Brandon Ormond convinced his victim that he was a "good person" after approaching her in the street and handing her religious literature.

But he then whisked the vulnerable teen away to a secluded area near to a beach, where he subjected her to a series of vile sexual acts. Having then abandoned her once more in the early hours, she was ultimately discovered by police in distress near to a Morrisons supermarket.

Liverpool Crown Court heard yesterday afternoon, Wednesday, that the teenager went missing from home before travelling to New Brighton, Wirral, by bus, arriving in the area at around 10.30pm. She was then located by police at around 6am the following day, at which stage she "became visibly upset" and disclosed to officers that she had been subjected to a sexual assault.

Frances Wilmott, prosecuting, described how the girl went on detail how Ormond, of Ripon Road in Wallasey, had approached her and began talking to her. Despite having been "initially wary" of him, the 29-year-old went on to "tell her that he was a Christian and gave her a religious leaflet", which "made her think he was a good person".

The two thereafter sat on a bench, where the defendant asked if he could put his arm around her while "saying it was cold". Ormond subsequently suggested that they move to an underpass near to the beach as it "would be warmer", then began kissing the schoolgirl in this location in spite of being told of her young age.

Having subsequently "asked if she wanted to have sex", he pulled down his trousers and performed a sexual act upon her and "told her he thought she was fit" before being disturbed by a barking dog.

Ormond then left the girl and returned home at around 3.30am, leaving her to walk to the nearby Morrisons store alone before being found by police at daybreak. Having been identified and arrested, he told detectives that he believed the complainant was homeless and aged 18.

When his phone was analysed, it was found to contain a number of pictures of "partially dressed young girls in sexualised poses". These photographs did not result in criminal charges however, as they were not deemed to be indecent images by law.

Martine Snowdon, defending, told the court: "There are references from a number of people who speak well of him. He has read to me a short letter which he wanted to write to your honour, reinforcing his remorse and recognising the impact.

"He had difficult circumstances in his upbringing. A single mother brought him up. He had a relationship with his father, although he died a few years ago. He fell out of education. He is motivated to work in a positive way and hopes to be a better person. He has got support with that and a willingness to do that."

Ormond admitted two counts of sexual activity with a child and causing a child to engage in sexual activity. Appearing via video link to HMP Liverpool wearing a navy blue Regatta fleece and with a crucifix on show around his neck, he was jailed for 38 months.

Sentencing, Judge David Swinnerton said: "You were 29 when you sexually abused [victim's name], who was 15 years of age, although that was not the sum total of her vulnerabilities. You have no previous convictions, and that is something that I will take into account in your favour.

"She ran away from home. She travelled to New Brighton, where, in what must have been the early hours of the morning, you came across her alone. I do not know how much time you spent with her, but you left her alone at 3.30 in the morning.

"It must have been obvious to you quite quickly that she was young, and she told you that she was 15. It must have been obvious to you that she was vulnerable from the fact that it was cold.

"She was somebody who needed your help. It should have been obvious to you that she had other difficulties. Yet, despite that, rather than taking her to a police station or calling the police, you invited her to come down an underpass onto the beach, where you sat with her.

"From that moment, you were preying on her vulnerability. You need to be aware of the impact that you have had. Her life, her self esteem, her self confidence, her ability to cope with the world and others, all of this has been compromised by what you did to her.

"You were under the influence of alcohol. You have sought help while in custody. I think you say that you had something like six cans before you committed these offences. I take into account that you show some remorse.

"You yourself come from a background which was, in some ways, difficult. I am satisfied that you do show an interest sexually in young girls."

Ormond was also handed an indefinite sexual harm prevention order. He will be required to sign the sex offenders' register for life.

Description

A man has been banned from every McDonald's in Merseyside after spying on a 16-year-old girl in the bathroom of a Liverpool city centre restaurant.

Tyler Rogers, 24, said he was picking up a "Too Good to Go" bag when he wandered into the women's toilets at around 9.45pm on Thursday, July 24.

He appeared at Liverpool Magistrates Court yesterday (July 26), where he pleaded guilty to voyeurism, the Liverpool Echo reported.

Prosecutor Adrian Evans told the court: "There was a female who had gone into the McDonald's toilets, a 16-year-old. When she was on the toilet itself, she has seen a male peering over into the cubicle in which she was seated.

"The male has then left. Police were called and the defendant was identified by officers. At the time, there was another female in the toilet, and the victim has been described as looking very shaken up as a result of the incident - the offences perpetrated by this defendant.

"Upon being arrested, he made a significant statement [along the lines of] 'I didn't do anything wrong'.

"The act he did admit doing, but he denied any sexual gratification from the same. Having pleaded guilty, he now must accept that sexual gratification was at least one of the reasons why he carried out the offence."

The court heard Rogers, of Stanley Road, Bootle, had appeared before the courts on voyeurism charges before. In June 2023, he was given a 16-month sentence after using a hidden camera to secretly film nude women in the changing rooms of Crosby Leisure Centre.

After Rogers was caught in the McDonald's toilets, a witness said she heard the victim shout: "I swear I just seen a man look at me and run out".

She said: "I was too scared to leave the cubicle so I just sat there for five minutes. I then opened the door, ran over to the McDonald's security staff and told them what had happened."

Mr Evans said: "The defendant is already a registered sex offender. Despite being a registered sex offender, he has once again gone out and committed a deliberate act of voyeurism against a young girl for his own sexual gratification, despite the fact that a Sexual Harm Prevention Order is in place already. That is designed to protect girls and others from the defendant's proclivities.

"Unfortunately he has chosen to deliberately commit a further offence, therefore these terms have not prevented him from going out to this public restaurant and committing this offence.

"He has shown a total disregard for the court order already in place, and he has demonstrated by these further acts that he is a threat and does pose a real danger to young girls in the community."

David Achilles, defending, said: "Rogers tells me he had gone in to collect some food. He had been drinking, he was under the influence of alcohol.

"He went into the wrong toilet and basically he has taken advantage of the situation he has found himself in. There is some planning, but it certainly isn't significant.

"He's in hostel accommodation at the moment. If he's given an immediate custodial sentence, he will lose that accommodation. That isn't going to do anybody any good, because he would come out homeless."

Urging the magistrates to pass a suspended sentence, he added: "I'm not trying to minimise what he has done. I think he accepts it's totally unacceptable. He needs to learn from it. Hopefully he will."

Bench chairman Mark Appleton said a pre-sentence report was required. He told Rogers: "There's a very realistic chance you could be remanded in custody for this offence, however we're going to give you a chance. These are serious matters, as you know."

Description

A Southport man has been jailed for 15 years and must sign the Sex Offender Register for life after raping a child and committing a series of sex offences against four other children.

Callum Crofts, 22, of King Street, Southport, was found guilty of the rape of a child under 16 last February after a two-week trial in November 2024. He then pleaded guilty in March 2025 to 11 more offences against children.

Crofts was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court, on Monday 30 June,  to a total of 15 years in prison for the following sexual offences, which took place from February 2023 to March 2024 against five victims:

• Rape of a child under 16
• Seven counts of engaging in sexual activity with a child
• Three counts of engaging in sexual communications with a child
• One count of cause/incite a child to engage in sexual activity
• One count of send a photograph of genitals to cause alarm/distress or humiliation
• Three counts of Make indecent photographs of a child (Cat A,B,C)

Detective Constable Lindsey Harris said:

“Crofts showed no regard for the long-lasting emotional impact his vile actions will undoubtedly have on all his victims, acting only to satisfy his own depravity.

“I hope this sentencing shows that violence against women and girls will not be tolerated and we will work tirelessly to bring offenders to justice. 

“Crofts was found guilty by a unanimous verdict of this heinous crime. He will now spend a significant time in prison.

“Anyone that has been a victim of a sexual offence, is concerned for the safety of someone they know or suspects someone to be engaging in this criminal activity, should come forward and speak to us.

“We have a team of dedicated staff who will expertly and compassionately deal with your reports and we will do everything we can to bring offenders to justice.

“While no sentence will repair the trauma which was inflicted on his victims, I hope this sentencing will not only provide them with justice, but also encourage other victims to come forward and have the confidence in us as a police force to take reports seriously and ultimately ensure offenders are put before the courts.”

Description

A convicted sex offender sought out the services of an escort and ended up behind bars. Matthew Bushell had only recently been released from prison when he was caught breaching restrictions that are designed to prevent him from committing crimes of a sexual nature.

Having been quickly rumbled by the police, he then confessed to his attempts to cover his tracks as he "thought he could get away with it". Back in jail, he now "understands that he needs to try to stop getting into trouble".

Liverpool Crown Court heard this afternoon, Tuesday, that Bushell is subject to an indefinite sexual harm prevention order as a result of a conviction for sexual assault in 2014. This prevents the 52-year-old from deleting his internet history, amongst a number of other terms restricting his online activities.

Ben Stanley, prosecuting, described how Merseyside Police paid a visit to the defendant's then home on Cobden Road in Southport on June 3 last year, shortly after his release from an earlier spell in jail, in order to ensure his compliance with the order. While Bushell handed over his mobile phone and a tablet computer upon request, it was subsequently discovered that he had wiped the browsing history of both devices earlier the same day.

When questioned on the matter, he claimed that he "didn't want prison staff to see his browsing history while he was in prison". The PC however pointed out that these electronics were not available to him when he was locked up, at which stage he "admitted that he must have deleted it while intoxicated".

Investigations thereafter discovered that Bushell had wiped the internet history from his phone on 356 previous occasions, as well as 125 times from the tablet computer. It was further established that he had searched for terms relating to online sex chats, pornographic websites and escort page Viva Street.

Following his arrest, Bushell confessed under interview that he "was doing stuff he shouldn't have" and had deleted his browsing history as he was "scared and thought he could get away with it". His criminal record shows a total of nine previous convictions for 19 offences, including flouting the terms of the same order in 2016 and 2021.

Bushell has since been recalled on licence in relation to a 16-month sentence he received in July 2024 for seven counts of breaching his SHPO, and is not due to be released until November this year. Desmond Lennon, defending, told the court: "He had material on those devices which he accepts that he should not have had.

"He readily accepts that conduct. He hopes that he would have perhaps moved on from it, but, at the moment, it seems that he is unable to do so. He has had significant issues with alcohol abuse.

"He understands that he does need to try to stop getting himself into trouble in terms of his interests and to stop getting himself in breach of this order. He is in his 50s, and he really does need to move on if he possibly can."

Bushell admitted one count of breaching a sexual harm prevention order. Appearing via video link to HMP Risley wearing a grey t-shirt two days after his birthday, he was jailed for a further eight months.

Sentencing, Recorder Mark Ainsworth said: "This order has been in place, in one form or another, since May 2014. There is no doubt that you were aware of the requirements. It became clear that the search history on these devices had been deleted, which, of course, was a breach of the order.

"You accepted that you were doing stuff that you should not have been doing and deleted your history, and you did that because you were scared of the consequences and thought you could get away with it. The real problem, in this case, is the fact that this is not the first time that you have been before the court for such breaches."

16 Dec 2021 - Liverpool Echo

Groped women and sucked their fingers in his home.

A sex attacker placed adverts for topless women to clean his home.

Matthew Bushell, 48, is banned from advertising for women to contact him as a result of past sex attacks.

The pervert lured two female victims to his home under false pretences then molested them in 2013.

Courts have heard about his "unhealthy obsession" with sex and history of using sex workers and escorts.

But last December he flouted the ban by placing 32 ads for what he called "consensual sexual entertainment".

Bushell was convicted of two sexual assaults in May 2014 after putting adverts on Gumtree for female cleaners.

Explaining the "context" to his latest offence, Simon Duncan, prosecuting, told Liverpool Crown Court one woman met him at Southport train station in June 2013.

Mr Duncan said Bushell took her to his home in Cobden Road, Southport, where "he grabbed her, kissed her and sucked her fingers", so she left and called police.

Officers went to his house the next day and found another woman, there "under the pretence of a job interview".

She didn't make any criminal allegations, but then a second female victim came forward, who had also responded to a Gumtree advert.

She went to Bushell's house that April, but when she arrived, he asked her if she would clean topless for cash.

Mr Duncan said he "put his hand down her pants and touched her breasts and offered her money to stay the night".

Bushell was sentenced to a hospital order and hit with an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO).

He was released from hospital in February 2015 and then monitored by Merseyside Police's sex offender unit.

Mr Duncan said "suspicions were building" for officers in October 2020, when they examined his electronic devices and found search terms "of concern", but no evidence of any offences.

However, in February this year, police discovered he had placed ads on the website Viva Street under the username "CoolBoy47" asking women if they wanted "horny fun".

Mr Duncan said: "He was inviting females to call, text or WhatsApp at any time."

He said Bushell placed 32 adverts for women on Viva Street between December 10 and 16 "inviting them to engage in sex work, some advertising for topless cleaning services, and others offered payment for sexual services".

Mr Duncan said: "He has a history of using sex workers and strangely on occasions reporting his dissatisfaction with their services to the police."

He added: "He was interviewed on March 29, 2021. He admitted that he created the Viva Street account with a view to some 'consensual sexual entertainment'."

Bushell admitted placing the adverts and said he received "a fair few responses" but only chatted to them on the phone and then stopped because he feared it would be discovered.

He admitted breaching his SOPO.

Bushell was previously convicted of breaching the order in February 2018, when he was spared jail after placing ads for female house cleaners.

Mr Duncan said he was later convicted of harassment against a female doctor, who had once treated him, by sending her "abusive and insulting messages" and calls.

Description

A child rapist has been jailed for 24 years for subjecting two young girls to years of sexual abuse in Warrington.

Anthony Wilcock, of Harvey Avenue, Newton-le-Willows, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday 9 May where he was handed the custodial sentence. He will also need to serve an extra year on extended licence.

The 44-year-old had previously denied three counts of sexual assault by penetration and eight counts of rape but was found guilty following a trial.

The court heard how Wilcock had abused the victims over many years in the Warrington area. One girl was abused when she was aged between nine and 15, and the second girl when she was aged between 12 and 14.

The offences were reported in April 2023 and the victims bravely spoke about what had happened to them. Following enquiries, Wilcock was arrested. He was then ultimately charged with multiple offences in May 2024.

On top of his 24-year sentence, Wilcock was ordered to sign the Sex Offender Register for life and is also subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, plus restraining orders to protect the victims in this case.

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A paedophile preyed on a schoolboy, taking him on days out to race tracks, truck stops and Liverpool John Lennon Airport. Paul Jones, 62, pretended to bond with the teenager over a shared love of machines and Formula One - all the while forming "an unhealthy sexual interest" in him.

At Liverpool Crown Court on Tuesday, May 5, prosecutor Simon Christie said the victim was vulnerable, and "the defendant appeared to be supportive of the victim's particular needs, took him to race tracks and to see various truck stops around the country.

"There was a considerable degree of exchange in digital form, with the defendant becoming quite demanding and seeking the victim's attention, not wanting to share the victim with other people."

Jones, of Davenham Avenue, Oxton, admitted sexual activity with a child, as the court heard how on two occasions he had touched the boy sexually.

In a victim statement, the now adult survivor said: "I have found the whole process extremely difficult and stressful. I often ask myself if all the stress is going to be worth it, will I be able to keep going, will I be able to keep fighting to the end?

"I have been feeling bad and carry guilt for making the report to the police... I often feel selfish for making the report when I did due to the time that had passed since it happened. My mum was so worried about me and what happened. I feel it has taken a toll on her."

He said the stress of dealing with what happened had resulted in him being signed off work, and that he struggled constantly with fear and anxiety.

He added: "The offences committed against me had a huge impact on my life and continue to do so. I'm struggling to sleep due to stress and anxiety. I'm constantly exhausted and some days I won't leave the house at all. I find myself missing things I would normally enjoy as I can't face it."

Stella Hayden, defending, said Jones was of previously good character with no past convictions. She said: "He appreciates he is the only one who bears any culpability. The victim was a child when this took place and he instigated the sexual abuse of him.

"There are a few slightly more positive aspects of his report. These can be difficult offences to accept and there was a small step forward in that regard, and he was able to understand the impact on the victim.

"He did express remorse and willingness to engage in any rehabilitation work he may be offered. He expresses no objection to a curfew and would pay any penalty the court sees fit to impose." She urged the judge to pass a suspended sentence.

Judge Andrew Menary explained to the court that, though other allegations had been made about Jones by the victim, he was only able to sentence the 62-year-old on the basis of his guilty plea.

He said: "You and (victim) were interested in things mechanical, in particular haulage companies and Formula One, and you took him on a number of trips on his own to see a number of places of interest to you both, for example the airport.

"Much of that the victim would have enjoyed. What he did not enjoy was the unhealthy interest you showed in him. At least to an extent, your motivation for spending time with him was an unhealthy sexual interest in him."

The judge explained how Jones touched the boy sexually twice while at his home.

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A man from Sefton has been jailed today, Friday 2 May, after pleading guilty to 27 child sex offences targeting underage children across the country.

Michael Lymath, of no fixed address but formerly from Southport, was sentenced to 20 years in prison at Liverpool Crown Court today, plus eight years extended licence period which is additional time during which the offender is supervised in the community after their release. He had pleaded guilty to the catalogue of sex offences against underage girls at a previous court hearing.

In December last year detectives arrested and charged 43-year-old Lymath following a report from a child victim that they had been offered payment for images. A search of Lymath’s home address was conducted where numerous exhibits were seized, Lymath was initially charged with the reported offence along with Possession of cannabis, Possession of cocaine and Possession of an offensive weapon in a private place.

Lymath was remanded into custody by the courts while detectives continued investigating the full scope of Lymath’s offending, which resulted in him being convicted of 27 offences which he committed across the UK between 2020 and until his arrest in December 2024.  The long list of additional charges included Rape of a girl under the age of 13, Cause/incite a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity, Engage in sexual communication with a child, Attempt to cause/incite a girl to engage in sexual activity, two counts of Cause a child to watch/look at an image of sexual activity, Possession of cannabis, Possession of cocaine and Possession of an offensive weapon in a private place.

The court heard that Lymath would prey on underage children on social media under various guise’s that included pretending he was a 17-year-old boy and message them.

Following a complex investigation detectives discovered that he had been in contact with several victims from across the UK. Lymath had groomed children online and had met them in person where he engaged in sexual activity.

He had also lured multiple victims to send explicit images of themselves by offering them payment.

Detective Constable Rory Quigley said: “This sentence follows a lengthy and complex investigation to bring Lymath before the courts so that he pays for his crimes.

“He was a prolific sexual predator – targeting young and vulnerable children for his own sexual gratification, thinking he could get away with it.

“He manipulated his vulnerable young victims and sent them explicit videos to watch. In one instance he told child victim that he knew where they lived to manipulate them into sending him sexually explicit images which were categorised A, B and C.”

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A MAN has been jailed for nine years after raping a woman in St Helens.

Nadal Mehemed, 36, of South John Street, in St Helens, was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court today (Thursday, April 10), after pleading guilty to rape and robbery.

On Saturday, June 2024, Mehemed assaulted and raped a woman inside a property and forcibly took her mobile phone in an attempt to prevent her from contacting emergency services.

The woman’s call still went through to police call handlers and part of the incident was recorded and used in evidence against Mehemed.

As well as a prison sentence, Mehemed has also been given a life time restraining order against his victim and placed on the Sex Offender Register indefinitely.

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A St Helens man has been jailed today, Monday 27 January, for the rape and sexual assault of two girls.

Declan Tracey, 22 years, from St Helens appeared at Liverpool Crown Court and was sentenced to seven years in prison. The judge put him on the Sexual Notification for life and put a restraining order in place for 14 years.

Tracey pleaded guilty to 10 sexual offences committed between 2016 and 2020, which were oral rape, eight counts of attempted rape.

Detective Sergeant Bob Sandham said: “I would like to praise the courage and dignity the two young victims have shown throughout the investigation. While no sentence will repair the damage he has inflicted on them and their innocence has been taken away, I hope this conviction has secured some justice for them.

“Violence against women and girls will simply not be tolerated and we will work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.”

Detective Sergeant Sandham added: “We are committed to protecting victims of sexual offences, and anyone who reports an incident to us will be safeguarded and supported throughout the investigation by Specially Trained Officers and Sexual Violence Advocates who will provide all the relevant support.