Stephen Yates

Stephen Yates, a 47-year-old man from Derby Road in Southport, Merseyside, was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday, 9 January 2026, following his conviction on nine counts of offences related to sexual activity with a person with a mental disorder, under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

The offences occurred in 2020 and involved the sexual assault of a vulnerable woman. Yates was charged in October 2024 after a complex investigation conducted by Merseyside Police. The court heard details of the traumatic ordeals inflicted upon the victim, highlighting the severity of the exploitation of her vulnerability due to her mental disorder.

Detective Constable Chris Condliff, who led the investigation, described the case as shocking, stating: “Yates subjected her to traumatic ordeals.” He emphasised the commitment of Merseyside Police to protecting individuals from sexual abuse and bringing offenders to justice. The sentencing, which resulted in Yates being imprisoned for four years and nine months, also included the imposition of a restraining order and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order to prevent future harm.

This case underscores the serious approach taken by UK courts towards sexual offences against vulnerable persons, with the full support of law enforcement in Merseyside. The investigation's complexity did not deter the authorities from pursuing justice, ensuring that Yates faced the consequences of his actions.