Latest Offenders

Description

A man who sexually assaulted three teenage girls and two women has been jailed.

Stavros Theodoulou made sexual remarks to all of the victims, who were all known to him, as well as touching them repeatedly.

The matters came to light when one of the women came forward to report the abuse in 2023. A number of other people then also reported similar experiences with Theodoulou.

In a victim impact statement, one of the women said:

“It has made me wonder how many other women have been subjected to his abuse like I was and how long it has been going on for.

“Because of what I have been through I also find I have struggled to make friendships at work and in my personal life. This is not a true reflection of the real me.

“I find myself having flashbacks of the assaults and it has deeply impacted my ability to go about my life normally. The whole situation impacted me mentally and emotionally and I feel I will be affected by this for a long time.

“A man like Theodoulou is dangerous and unpredictable working in society. I hope once and for all people will know exactly who he is so that people are protected from him in future and that no one else ever falls victim to him.

"I wouldn’t wish what I went through upon anyone. It pains me every day and I have to live with the ongoing trauma he has caused me.”

Theodoulou was arrested and subsequently charged with five counts of sexual assault as well as three charges of possessing a firearm without a certificate after officers found the items at his house when they went to arrest him.

The 59-year-old, of Hilcote Lane, Alfreton, admitted the charges and appeared at Derby Crown Court for sentence on Friday 9 January where he was jailed for 30 months. He was also handed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Detective Constable Leonie Hitchmough, who led the investigation, said:

“I’d like to commend these women for their bravery in coming forward and reporting these offences by Theodoulou.

“His actions have understandably had a major impact on them all and will continue to do so for some time to come.

“I have no doubt that he would have continued to offend had he not been brought to justice for these offences so I am incredibly grateful to all those who came forward to report him.

“I’d like to encourage anyone else who is experiencing something similar to please come forward and speak to us. We will listen without judgement and support you throughout."

Description

A rapist who tried to intimidate his victim into withdrawing from the investigation has been jailed for 23 years.

Daniel Rowe, 35, formerly of Tiverton and Exeter, appeared at Exeter Crown Court for sentence on Friday 16 January, after previously being found guilty by a jury of three counts of rape.

During the trial, the court heard how the victim in the case disclosed to officers several rapes committed against her by Rowe.

She described being terrified of Rowe and scared he would hurt her if she fought back.

The victim provided messages to officers showing Rowe apologising after one such attack.

After the offences were reported, Rowe contacted his victim and made attempts to pressurise her to withdraw her statement. He also made threats that he would get others to terrorise her.

In interview, Rowe claimed that sexual activity between the two was consensual.

Officer in the case, DC Josh Marks said:

“We welcome the sentence given to Daniel Rowe following his conviction for what is an extremely troubling set of sexual offences.

“Daniel Rowe is a dangerous and violent sex offender who showed no regard for his victim who he controlled through fear.

“I would like to praise the strength of the victim and thank her for remaining engaged throughout proceedings.

“I hope she now feels some closure and is able to move on with her life knowing Rowe will remain behind bars for many years.”

Description

A man has been jailed for multiple non-recent sexual offences dating back as far as 2004.

Larry Roberts, 69, was handed a prison sentence of eight years and six months, was placed on the Sex Offenders register for life and served an indefinite restraining order after appearing at Lincoln Crown Court on Monday 12 January.

Additionally, he will be prohibited from working with children or vulnerable adults for life.

Roberts, of Seagry Hill, Sutton Benger, Chippenham, formerly of Boston, Lincolnshire, had pleaded not guilty to five counts of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child aged 13 to 15, and the sexual assault of a child by intentionally touching private areas of her body to which she did not consent. However, with the prosecution and his victims having presented such robust evidence, on 26 November 2025 a jury found him guilty of all six charges.

The court heard how he intentionally engaged in sexual activity, namely masturbation, in a place where he could be observed on at least three occasions by a child under the age of 16, for the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification. The children subjected to these acts were between just 13- and 15-years-old when the offences took place between 2004 and 2010.

The life-long impact of his sickening behaviour was underscored in both victim statements read out in court, which described the profound impact these non-recent events have had on both victims’ mental health going adulthood.  

The officer in charge of this case, Detective Constable Sarah Oliver from the Protecting Vulnerable People Unit, said:

“The complainants in this case have lived with the impact of these events throughout their adult lives. It was through their resilience and determination that they found the courage to come forward and ensure their voices were heard. This journey has been incredibly challenging for both of them, but I hope this outcome has provided a sense of validation. This recognition is profoundly significant for them, affirming that what they were subjected to had truly happened.

“I am immensely proud of them. Their strength in standing tall and speaking out deserves acknowledgment and considerable respect.

“I want to reassure anyone who may have questions about historical incidents: the passage of time should never prevent victims from coming forward. If you choose to speak out, you will be listened to, believed, and supported throughout the entire process.

“Our commitment is to do everything possible to gather strong, reliable evidence that meets judicial standards, so we can pursue the justice you deserve.”

Description

A man who sexually abused a child in Waterlooville has been jailed for 30 years.

Michael Lashley, aged 38, abused the girl at his home address. The sexualised abuse began when she was just three years-old, and continued over a number of years, with the severity of the abuse escalating as time went on.

Lashley repeatedly raped the child, and threatened to harm her if she ever told anyone what he was doing.

During this time, Lashley also drank alcohol and physically assaulted the young girl.

When the girl was a teenager, she messaged Lashley about the abuse she had endured from a young age and threatened to tell the police. In response, Lashley begged her not to tell anyone before referring to himself as a ‘weak person’, and that he was scared of going to prison and would ‘not be able to cope’.

In April 2021, the girl told a teacher at school who in turn contacted the police.

A lengthy investigation ensued, which resulted in Lashley being charged in August 2024 with four counts of raping a child, one count of sexually assaulting a child and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Lashley, now of no fixed abode, denied the offences, but was found guilty at Portsmouth Crown Court on 15 October 2025, following a trial.

Appearing at the same court on Friday 16 January this year, he was jailed for 30 years, and handed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order.

DC Kerry Needham said:

“This was a horrific case of repeated rape and sexual abuse on a child who was just three years-old when the abuse began.

“It is utterly inconceivable that a human being could treat a child like this. The bravery shown by this girl in coming forward and not allowing Lashley to get away with his unspeakable crimes is astonishing.

“She should be commended for her courage, and it is because of her that this dangerous offender will now spend a lengthy period of time in prison.”

Description

A 79-year-old taxi driver has been jailed for sexually abusing a child in his car after offering her a free lift when she couldn't pay the £30 fare.

Terence Round pleaded guilty to engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl under 16 and causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. He was sentenced to four years in prison at Truro Crown Court and will remain on the sex offender register for life.

The incident occurred three years ago. Prosecutor Heather Hope said Round had previously texted the victim asking her age, given her lifts, and told her it was a shame she wasn't 16. On the day of the offense, the teen offered "anything he wanted" for a free ride. Round drove her to an isolated spot in Cornwall and locked the doors.

The victim felt "terrified," "froze," and as though she would cry, Ms. Hope said. After the assault, Round drove her to her destination and told her not to tell anyone.

Defense lawyer Emily Cook described it as "clearly very serious offending" but noted "rather odd and unusual circumstances" led to it. She said Round initially thought "anything he wants" meant cleaning his car, adding he is "not a risk - he has never offended before," hasn't offended again, and "no longer works as a taxi driver - his career has ended."

Sentencing Round, Judge James Adkin said: "You were a taxi driver, you gave her a lift and took her to an isolated spot." He noted the victim "said she was terrified, she felt she was about to cry." After, "you told her to get dressed and act like nothing happened," and reminded her not to tell anyone. The judge cited Round's personal circumstances and lack of previous convictions as mitigating factors.

Description

A “dangerous” 42-year-old man from Bristol who committed more than a dozen online sex offences against children has been handed an extended 17-year prison sentence.

Adam Pugh, of Southmead, admitted the offences and was sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday 14 January.

Avon and Somerset Police’s investigation began in October 2025 after potential offences were identified by another agency.

Their referral identified indecent messages and images being shared by Pugh with a profile purporting to belong to a 13-year-old girl.

The account was traced to his home and Pugh was then arrested by detectives in Avon and Somerset Police’s Internet Child Abuse Team.

His home was searched by specialist officers who uncovered a number of mobile phones being used by Pugh, in breach of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order he was subject to.

A review of these phones uncovered further indecent communications made by Pugh and indecent images of children.

He was later charged before pleading guilty to the following 15 offences, which were committed between August and October 2025:

• Two counts of engaging in sexual communication with a child
• Two counts of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child
• One count of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity
• Three counts of making an indecent photograph of a child
• One count of distributing an indecent photograph of a child
• One count of publishing an obscene article
• One count of attempting to arrange an offence of sexual activity with a child
• One count of causing a child to engage in sexual activity
• Three counts of breaching Sexual Harm Prevention Order

At Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday 14 January, Pugh was handed an initial nine-year prison sentence which was extended by a further eight years to a total of 17 years.

Extended sentences can be imposed by judges where an offender is deemed to be dangerous and further protection for the public from their harm is required.

Detective Inspector Laura Newton, of the Internet Child Abuse Team, said:

“Adam Pugh groomed children online for his own sexual gratification, exposing them to sexual acts and coercing them into sending indecent images. In doing so, he breached a Sexual Harm Prevention Order in place to protect children from further harm.

“He is a dangerous individual who poses a significant risk to children, as demonstrated by the lengthy prison sentence handed down in court.

“Safeguarding vulnerable young people remains our highest priority and we will continue to work closely with partner agencies to ensure offenders are brought to justice and victims receive the support they need.”

Description

A man who sexually assaulted a young child and had more than 125,000 indecent images and videos of children has been jailed following an in-depth investigation by our Police Online Investigation Team (POLIT).

Officers started investigations and executed a warrant after they were alerted to concerning activity on Steven Field’s devices.

Forensic analysis of the devices seized from his Southend home revealed a number of indecent images and videos of children, internet searches and accounts connected to the defendant.

Investigating officers became particularly concerned around some of the images which clearly showed the 52-year-old with a child.

"sensitive investigation"

Working sensitively with the child and their family, the child revealed that they had been sexually assaulted by Field.

Following a meticulous investigation and overwhelming evidence Field, of Marks Court, admitted one count of taking an indecent photo of a child and three counts of making indecent/pseudo photo of a child (Cat A – 2491 photos and 228 videos. Cat B – 3087 photos and 158 videos. Cat C – 118,633 photos and 496 videos) when he appeared at Basildon Crown Court.

He denied the charge of assault of a child under 13 by penetration but was found guilty in October 2025 following a jury trial.

At the same court on Monday 19 January he was jailed for seven years, with a further year on licence. As part of his sentence he must comply with the restrictions of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and he was placed on the sex offenders register.

"every child in every image is a victim"

Detective Constable Rob Guiney, who led this investigation, paid tribute to the young survivor in this case.

They have shown such strength and determination throughout this very challenging investigation. They have bravely told their story and realised what happened to them was wrong and against the law.

Field’s depraved offending has now been stopped, and he is rightly serving a prison sentence.

Every child in every image is a victim, and we are dedicated to finding those who prey on the most vulnerable people in our society.

Please do report any concerns you have to us, we are here and will thoroughly investigate all allegations made.

Description

Update

A 45-year-old British man was charged on Friday, 16 January with 15 further offences relating to possession of indecent images of children and acts of outraging public decency.

Vincent Chan, 45 (28.10.80), of Stanhope Avenue, Finchley was charged on Friday, 16 January with the following offences:

• Nine counts of taking an indecent photograph or pseudo-photograph of a child, at category A, B and C
• Six counts of acts of outraging public decency

The charges relate to nine separate girls.

The charges relate to offending which predates other offences, which Chan has already pleaded guilty to. He awaits sentencing.

Those offences involved offending at a nursery in West Hampstead. These new charges did not take place at the same location.

Officers continue to work at pace and the investigation is ongoing.

Chan remains in custody.

2025-12-03

A nursery worker has pleaded guilty in one of the most harrowing and complex child sexual abuse investigations undertaken by the Metropolitan Police Service. 

The conviction, which includes 26 charges, marks a chilling chapter in the fight against crimes targeting society’s most vulnerable.

Vincent Chan, 45 (28.10.80), a British national of Stanhope Avenue, Finchley, appeared at Wood Green Crown Court on Wednesday, 3 December for a pre-trial hearing. Chan pleaded guilty to 26 offences relating to sexual assault offences against children and the taking and making of indecent images of children.

The offences include five counts of sexual assault of a child by penetration, four counts of sexual assault of a child by touching, 11 counts of taking indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of a child, and six counts of making indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of a child. The latter offences involved images across categories A, B, and C, with category A depicting the most severe abuse.

Families of the identified children have been contacted directly and are receiving specialist support. A dedicated NSPCC helpline has been set up for all families whose children attended the nursery to discuss concerns and access support.

Chan will be sentenced at the same court on Friday, 23 January.

Detective Superintendent Lewis Basford, who led the Met’s investigation, said:

“Child sexual abuse is one of the most horrific crimes imaginable, and Chan’s offending spanned years, revealing a calculated and predatory pattern of abuse. He infiltrated environments that should have been safe havens for children, exploiting the trust of families and the wider community to conceal his actions and prey on the most vulnerable.

“Our investigation remains ongoing, and we are continuing to review digital devices and assess Chan’s conduct across all relevant settings. We recognise the member of staff who raised their concerns, as without that first report of child cruelty Chan’s abuse could have continued unchecked, putting countless more children at risk.

“These appalling offences have caused deep shock and distress. We thank the community for its continued cooperation and reaffirm our commitment to supporting victims and their families. If you have any concerns, please contact the dedicated NSPCC helpline on 0800 028 0828 for specialist support. We are working closely with the NSPCC to ensure every family affected receives the help they need.”

Leigh Day, representing some of the families who attended the nursery at the time of the offending, have issued the following statement:

"As parents we are still trying to process the sickening discovery that our children were subjected to despicable abuse by Vincent Chan at the nursery.

“In admitting the charges, we are spared the prospect of hearing Vincent Chan's crimes at the nursery described in graphic detail in a trial. We trust the judge to pass the strongest sentence to fit the crimes Vincent Chan has committed against young children, innocent victims who could not fight back.

“We would like to thank the Metropolitan Police Service for their assistance and support so far, but appreciate that their investigations in this case are not yet complete.”

Chan’s guilty plea comes after a determined investigation from Met officers following his arrest on 11 June 2024.

The initial arrest on suspicion of child cruelty was prompted by a member of staff at the nursery, who reported that Chan had been capturing disturbing footage of children at the nursery he worked at in West Hampstead. Chan had been using a nursery-issued iPad to record the footage, which he then distorted by adding superimpositions and music for comedic purposes. He also shared stills with his colleagues.

At the point of arrest, officers seized 25 digital devices from his home and three from the nursery. Forensic teams trawled through the devices, where they uncovered substantial amounts of indecent images and videos of children, including evidence of contact sexual offences against children.

The videos depicted sexual contact offending taking place within the nursery, at times when Chan was responsible for minding the children.

Following this discovery, officers worked quickly to rearrest Chan on Monday, 8 September and formally charged him with the child sexual offences the following day.

A further 26 digital devices were seized from his home and 15 more from the nursery. In total, 69 devices were retrieved and analysed by Met officers as part of this investigation. Officers continue to investigate and review the materials, noting no further evidence of contact offending against children has been identified.

In light of the complex nature and scale of Chan’s offending, Met officers have worked sensitively to identify the victims. At this time, four young children have been identified as victims of contact-related sexual offending or being the subject of indecent images.

Their parents or guardians have been visited and informed by specially trained local officers and provided with a contact. Following these difficult conversations, families were also given direct access to specialist support services and local community partners for long-term, trauma-informed support.

Helen Reddy, Specialist Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service, said:

“Vincent Chan abused his position whilst working at a nursery to commit these horrific crimes against very young girls.

“It was a heinous breach of trust by someone working in a caring profession and in what should have been a safe place for children.

“The evidence against him was compelling and the nature and number of offences the CPS charged him with reflects the seriousness of his offending.

“The CPS will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to pursue perpetrators of child sexual abuse and secure justice for victims.

“I encourage the reporting of child sexual abuse to the police as you are not alone and there is always help available.”

Kellie Ann Fitzgerald, NSPCC Assistant Director for London and the South East, said:

“We are shocked and horrified by the nature and scale of the child sexual abuse that has come to light through this police investigation. Our thoughts are with all the children, families, and communities that have been impacted by Chan’s appalling breach of trust.

“The effects of child sexual abuse can be devastating for victims and their families, so part of our response must be to offer hope and healing. Alongside the local safeguarding partnerships, our first priority is to ensure that anyone directly impacted or worried about their child has the fastest possible access to the help and support they need. A dedicated NSPCC helpline has been set up - 0800 028 0828 - and our child protection specialists will be able to advise and take any necessary action to ensure the right support is put in place for every family.

“We are working with a network of specialist child sexual abuse services to provide therapeutic support for any child or parent who needs it. At the NSPCC, our ‘Letting the Future In’ service provides children and parents with the space, help and resources to process what has happened to them, and take vital steps towards recovery.

“In addition, our professional learning services are bringing together a range of resources for early years, education and community organisations to promote safe practice, and our schools service is working with education settings to help children know who they can turn to so they can be protected and supported. We encourage any setting which feels it could benefit from this support to reach out to us.”

Description

A man has been sentenced for multiple sexual offences against a child, following the brave victim coming forward to the police to report his abhorrent actions.

James Russell abused his position of being known to the victim, messaging her on a social media platform when she was 15-years-old. He continued to send inappropriate and sexual content for months, asking if the victim 'loved' him and sending photos of his genitalia.

The victim bravely came forward and disclosed what Russell had been sending her.

He was charged with engaging in sexual communication with a child, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and three counts of inciting the sexual exploitation of a child.

Today (Friday 16 January), Russell, aged 44, was handed a five-year sentence.

Courageously, Russell's victim shared the impact of his disgusting actions, speaking about the impact it had on her mental health:

"For the 12 months following the abuse it was so hard to be alive. The energy and fight it took just to get through the day was so great that I didn’t want to live anymore. I was so terrified.

"Brushing your teeth, washing your hair, these are activities that we should be able to do. But I just couldn’t do any of them. I couldn’t even make myself a cup of tea. On a bad day, I couldn’t speak or eat. And there were a lot of bad days.

"This kind of abuse is not a subject you can easily talk about. It feels embarrassing. I feel stupid, like I should have known what was happening. I often blame myself for what happened."

Alyshea Sharp, who worked on the case, said:

"Russell abused his position of trust with his victim which has caused her great pain.

"I would like to commend the victim's bravery throughout this whole investigation. It has been extremely difficult for her to recount the actions of Russell, but I hope this sentence today provides her with some comfort knowing Russell is now being held accountable for his actions, and the trauma it has caused her."

Russell, of no fixed abode, initially plead guilty to the counts of inciting the sexual exploitation of a child at Sheffield Crown Court on 17 September 2024. He pleaded not guilty to engaging in sexual communication with a child and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, but later changed his plea at the same court on 5 September 2025.

Description

A man has been jailed for raping and sexually abusing a young girl over a nine-year period.

Paul David Withnell, aged 74, of Presteigne, Powys, was found guilty of 19 non-recent child sex offences following an 8-day trial at Merthyr Crown Court in November 2025.

Today, the child rapist was sentenced to 21 years in jail.

At the November trial, the court heard how the victim was just seven years old when her childhood was cruelly stripped from her. The prosecution explained how this was just the start of a pattern of sexual abuse that would continue until she was fifteen.

It was told how the abuse began in the 1980s through the guise of a sick game called ‘tickle and fight’ where the offender would ask the victim to touch his penis, and he would touch her vagina.

Over time, Withnell began to fabricate a twisted fantasy in which he and the young girl were in a romantic relationship. It was during this time that Withnell began raping his victim which, in one instance, resulted in her becoming pregnant and experiencing a miscarriage during the summer school holidays.

She was around just thirteen years old.

Delivering her impact statement in court today, the victim said: “As I look back over my childhood, I am left with lasting trauma, flashbacks and memories that will never leave me...

"My innocence was ruined far too young, and I was forced to live in a world for adults when I was a mere child…”

The extent of Withnell’s sexual interest in young girls was further revealed through his collection of naked photographs and personal drawings of young girls. When asked about the nude images, the defendant told police “I think children, girls, between the ages of 13 and 16/17 are at their most beautiful. Or I did think that. That’s why I wanted to capture that in my drawings.”

In March 2025, Withnell pleaded guilty to a single charge of taking indecent photographs of a child but denied all the other charges against him.

Continuing her statement, the victim described the lasting impact of the abuse she suffered as a child.

She Said:

“No matter how resilient I have learnt to be as an adult, I will never escape the shame of my past. I feel as if I’ve been left with a permanent dirty stain that is always there, and no matter how I live my life now and try to forget my past, that stain remains - and will inevitably remain throughout my future.”

In total, Withnell was found guilty of the following offences:

• 4x Rape of a female under 16
• 6x Gross indecency of a girl under 14
• 8x Indecent assault of a girl under 16
• 1x Making indecent photographs of a child

Sentencing Withnell at Cardiff Crown Court today, the judge explained that he heard about the consequences the defendant's actions have had on the victim's life, causing her 'unspeakable hardship, misery and upset'.

"You caused her to endure decades of emotional pain… and now you must atone for your appalling conduct," he said.

“I think about that fourteen-year-old girl as she was undergoing the miscarriage… and I ask myself how frightened, isolated and scared that young teenager must have felt at having to undergo and endure that experience.

"It is almost impossible to articulate in adequate English how utterly appalling that experience must have been for her.”

Withnell has also been ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life, as well as being subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Detective Inspector Christine Beaton said:

“I want to commend the victim in this case for her bravery in coming forward to report these horrendous crimes.

“I understand that reporting crimes of this nature, particularly many years after they happened, can be especially daunting.

“The dignity and strength shown throughout the course of the investigation is testament to her resilience, bravery and determination to secure justice.

“Thanks to her support, and the diligent work of the investigation team, Withnell has finally been held to account for his vile actions.

“As Withnell faces his time in prison, I hope the victim in this case can take some solace in today’s outcome as she begins to move forward with her life.

“I hope this case reassures others that we will always take reports of sexual abuse incredibly seriously, no matter how recent or non-recent they may be.

“If you have been a victim of rape or sexual abuse, please come forward. We are compassionate, capable, and committed to supporting you every step of the way.”

Description

We can confirm a former officer has been jailed for two years in prison following a Merseyside Police investigation.

Former Detective Constable John Rigby appeared at Chester Crown Court today (Friday 16 January) after pleading guilty to paying for the sexual services of a boy aged 16/17 and three counts of causing a computer to perform a function to secure/enable unauthorised access to a program/data.

An accelerated Misconduct Hearing was held on Wednesday 17 December, which was chaired by Chief Constable Rob Carden, when he was formally dismissed.

It was found he had breached the standards of professional behaviour in terms of authority, respect and courtesy as well as discreditable conduct.

Rigby was arrested on Thursday 6 November and the following day he was charged and remanded and pleaded guilty on 7 November.

He appeared in Chester Crown Court today where he was sentenced to two years for paying for the sexual services of the boy and one year for the computer misuse offences, to be served concurrently. He was additionally served with a restraining order relating to the victim.

Detective Inspector Stephen Croasdale from the force Child Criminal and Sexual Exploitation Team, who led the investigation, said:

“Merseyside Police carried out a swift and thorough investigation into the actions of former Det Con John Rigby as soon as the allegations came to light.

“We were able to gather enough evidence to prove his offending, leaving him no choice but to admit what he had done.

“It’s only right that he now spends time in prison, when I hope he reflects on his crimes and the impact it has caused.

“Merseyside Police is completely committed to protecting young people from sexual abuse and stopping those who seek to do them harm.

“As you can imagine for victims of such an appalling crime, the impact on them is significant and long-lasting.

“We urge anyone who is a victim of any form of sexual abuse to please report this to police, and specially trained officers will listen to you and treat you with sensitivity and compassion throughout the entire legal process and beyond.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Sarbjit Kaur, head of Merseyside Police's professional standards department, added:

“Former Detective Constable John Rigby was rightly dismissed at an accelerated Misconduct Hearing due to the serious offences he admitted.

“The overwhelming majority of people who work for Merseyside Police join the force to support and help the public and they serve our communities with compassion and integrity on a daily basis.

“We will not allow individuals to damage the good name built up by the vast majority of our officers who do an exemplary job and serve our communities with compassion, integrity and professionalism.

“I would also like to reassure the public that as soon as he admitted the offences, his salary was stopped and he hasn’t received any payment from Merseyside Police since this date.

"We cannot afford to have officers and staff working for us who do not uphold the highest levels of professionalism, honesty and integrity and will always be robust in dealing with officers, or staff, whose conduct is unacceptable.

"It is vital that we as a police force maintain the public’s trust and confidence and ensure that officers and staff throughout the force realise the importance of maintaining standards and working with honesty and integrity.

"The public quite rightly have high expectations of police officers and Merseyside Police is committed to meeting those expectations by demanding high standards of professionalism, honesty and integrity.”

Description

A rapist has been jailed for more than eight years after being convicted of multiple crimes.

Osman Bahidiny, 27, of Port Street, Evesham, was sentenced to eight years and eight months in prison—six years for raping a woman in Bromyard in October 2023—at Worcester Crown Court on January 7.

He was also convicted of burglary, two thefts, attempted theft, dangerous driving, and driving while disqualified and without insurance. Bahidiny was placed on the sex offenders' register indefinitely and disqualified from driving for two years.

Now behind bars, his victim has spoken out about the “disgraceful time it takes" for rape victims to get justice. Adult rape survivors wait an average of 417 days from charging to Crown Court completion, plus years for police investigations.

The anonymous survivor said: “I am not alone in feeling this way. Why are people having to wait over five years before their case is heard?"

She described the wait as "mentally draining," adding: "justice has been done but it's taken a long time. For other victims who have to wait a distressing amount of time it must be horrific."

She reported the assault on December 31, 2023, after realizing “it was happening to others." The delay took its toll: “It kicks the strength out of you,” she said. “I installed CCTV all around my house and slept with a bat because he was just roaming free.

“Not enough is done, and the system needs changing because I shouldn’t have to live in this fear. I’m the one with a life sentence, not him."

According to Rape Crisis England & Wales, one in four women have been raped or sexually assaulted since age 16. Fewer than three in 100 rapes recorded by police in 2024 resulted in a charge that year.

Description

A convicted sex offender was caught with over 1,500 indecent images of children while under police supervision following his release from prison for similar offenses.

Anthony Beresford was monitored by the police's public protection unit (PPU) after serving a 14-month sentence imposed in 2020 for indecent images crimes.

Norwich Crown Court heard that during a July 2022 visit, officers found he had a KIK social media account and a laptop, breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) from his 2020 sentence.

Prosecutor Peter Gair said the device contained 359 Category A images—the most serious—along with 612 Category B and 552 Category C images.

Beresford, of Hall Lane, North Walsham, appeared in court on Thursday (January 15) after admitting the indecent images offenses and SHPO breach.

Judge David Pugh noted Beresford, who runs a business selling 1980s computer equipment online, had "accessed vast numbers of indecent images of children."

However, imposing a 14-month suspended sentence for 24 months, Judge Pugh accepted the offending occurred over three years ago and had not been repeated.

Mitigating barrister Andrew Oliver said Beresford uploaded images to his phone but did not realize they were on the laptop.

"He thought the images uploaded to his phone had been deleted," said Mr. Oliver.

Mr. Oliver added that Beresford accepted the offenses, showed "insight" into his behavior, and committed them over three years ago during a marital separation.

He explained Beresford was accessing social media into the "very early hours," which was the "trigger for this offending."

Beresford was ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid work, up to 15 days of Rehabilitation Activity Requirement (RAR), and an accredited program of up to 26 sessions.

He was also placed on the sex offenders' register for 10 years and subjected to a 10-year SHPO.

Description

A convicted rapist kicked a stranger in the head outside a bar, mistakenly believing the victim was also a sex offender.

Christopher Lawton threw Damon Birch out of Perry's Bar in St Helens and left him unconscious on the pavement after a vicious boot to the face.

The attack stemmed from a woman's claim inside the pub that Mr. Birch had raped her and served time for it, though prosecutors confirmed he had no such convictions. In contrast, Lawton was jailed for 12 years in 2004 for raping and indecently assaulting a mother and daughter, an ordeal a judge called "every woman's worst nightmare."

Liverpool Crown Court heard on Thursday that Merseyside Police responded to the September 30 incident around 11:30 p.m., finding Mr. Birch on the ground with shoulder and head pain. Prosecutor Laura Atherton said CCTV showed Lawton, 45, of Mount Pleasant Avenue, pushing the victim out, then kicking him in the head before walking away. Mr. Birch was unconscious for up to four minutes.

Hospital scans revealed extensive bruising to his chest and abdomen, but no fractures. He recalled little, having gone out for a smoke after drinking with a friend.

In a victim statement read to the court, Mr. Birch said: "At the beginning, I was struggling to lay down due to the uncontrollable pain I was in. I'm frightened to do day to day things, even going to St Helens town centre. I can't even walk past or be around Perry's Bar. It really triggers me. If I was to see the male, I would run. I can't understand why this would happen to me. I'm constantly scared and anxious. I feel the assault has taken my independence away. I can't relax going out. I'm constantly looking behind me."

Lawton had prior youth convictions for assault and ABH. Defense counsel Isabella Denn-White said: "Obviously, the defendant has a serious set of convictions, but dating back to 2004. He was released in 2012 and has been out of trouble since. He has got positive factors in his life. His partner supports him in court. Importantly, and he expressed it again today, he is extremely remorseful. He recognises the impact on the victim. He tells me that he is his mum's carer. His mum is sadly passing away of cancer and has about three months to live. He cares for her daily. He has not worked since 2015 after a diagnosis of paranoid psychosis. He is now on medication and working through that with professionals and the support of his partner. It was an alcohol-related lapse in judgement. It is clearly an issue with alcohol here, and bad decision making."

Lawton admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Wearing a black Hugo Boss polo shirt, he blew a kiss to his girlfriend in the gallery before being led to the cells.

Judge Ian Harris sentenced him to 18 months' imprisonment and a 10-year restraining order, saying: "You pushed Mr Birch out of the bar. His recollection is going outside for a smoke. He then remembers nothing, apart from being struck on the floor. He was defenceless, and you kicked him forcefully to the head on the floor. The victim describes constant pain in his shoulder, headaches, having a massive bruise down his ribs. He describes the mental and emotional impact as rendering him frightened to do day to day things, even going to St Helens town centre. The commission of this offence while heavily intoxicated is a factor that increases the seriousness. The plain fact is that you kicked this man to the head, causing him to become senseless for a period of some minutes. Fortunately for you, there were no long term physical difficulties. In mitigation, there is your guilty plea. The pre-sentence report indicates that you suffer from anxiety and paranoid psychosis. Your mother, sadly, is unwell. This was a vicious attack on a defenceless individual. By your own admission, you were heavily intoxicated. You kicked a defenceless man to his head when he was on the floor, causing him to become unconscious. The only appropriate punishment, in my judgement, is immediate imprisonment for this type of offending."

Description

A man from Congleton has been jailed after he admitted to sexually abusing young girls online.

James Lawton appeared at Chester Crown Court on Friday 9 January where he was sentenced to three years and four months in prison.

The 23-year-old, previously of Mill Street, Congleton, had earlier pleaded guilty to; causing a child to look at images of sexual activity, possession of indecent images of children, two counts of engaging in sexual communication with a child, three counts of making indecent images of children, and possession of extreme pornography.

He also pleaded guilty to inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

In addition to his prison sentence, Lawton was also ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life and handed a 10-year sexual harm prevention order.

The investigation began in January 2025 when Cheshire Police received intelligence relating to Lawton’s online activity that suggested he was engaging in sexual communications with a child.

Subsequently, officers from the Online Child Abuse Investigation Team conducted a warrant at Lawton’s home in Crewe where he was arrested and a number of electronic devices were seized and sent for analysis.

During this time, officers received a further report from Sussex Police that prior to his arrest, Lawton had been requesting sexually explicit images from a 12-year-old girl in their force area.

Lawton told the child that he was 15 and sent her sexual images and videos of himself, encouraging her to do the same.

He also requested indecent images from a 9-year-old girl from Nottingham.

During examination of the devices, officers recovered 368 indecent images and videos of children, over 129 of which were category A.

Lawton was later charged with the offences, which took place between June and August 2024.

Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Phil Limberg of the Online Child Abuse Investigation Team at Cheshire Police, said:

“We are committed to pursuing and bringing to justice those who view indecent images online and prey on vulnerable children using social media and messaging apps.

“Lawton is clearly a dangerous and predatory individual who was intent on engaging with young girls online for his own perverse sexual gratification, despite knowing full well that they were underage.

“Thankfully he has been given a substantial prison sentence and can no longer pose a threat to young girls.”