Aaron Ward 26

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Today (Tuesday 10 February) a St Helens man has been jailed for 10 years for committing child sex offences.

Aaron Ward, 26 years, of Gamble Avenue, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court and was sentenced to 10 years in prison, plus one year extended sentence.  He also received an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and will be subject to the Sex Offenders Register.

In July last year it was reported that Ward had committed historic child offences to a young girl from when he was 17-years-old and spanning over several years.

Following an investigation, Ward was charged with six sex offences to which he pleaded guilty to three counts of Assault by Touching and Cause/Incite a Child to Engage in Sexual Activity. However he was found guilty at trial for Rape of a Child and Assault by Penetration.

Officer in Charge of the investigation, Detective Constable Molly McKeown, said:

“Today’s sentencing follows a lengthy investigation to bring Ward before the courts so that he pays for his crimes.

“The victim showed immense courage despite her young age and was extremely brave to speak to police about this horrendous abuse.

“As part of the work of the Knowsley and St Helens Child Protection team this result has been brought today. Our sole focus is protecting young people and bringing offenders to justice. We have specialist dedicated officers who investigate these offences.”

Detective Constable McKeown added: “Merseyside Police is completely committed to protecting children from sexual abuse and those who seek to do them harm.

 “I would like to take this opportunity to stress that if you have experienced any form of sexual abuse, or know of a child being abused, please come forward and report this to police. 

“We take all such reports extremely seriously and if you can find the courage to come forward and speak to us we have specially trained officers who will treat you with sensitivity and compassion.”