Adam Hardman, a 39-year-old man from Leigh, was brought to justice for historic sexual offences against a small child in Warrington, Cheshire. The case, reported by the Chester Standard, centred on two counts of sexual assault of a child, for which Hardman initially pleaded not guilty but was convicted by a jury at Liverpool Crown Court following a trial.
The offences occurred when Hardman was an adult, though specific dates were not detailed in court proceedings to protect the victim. Limited details of the incidents were provided during the sentencing hearing, as the judge had already presided over the trial and was familiar with the circumstances. The abuse was described as 'traumatising' by Recorder Tim Harrington, who noted its profound and lasting effects on the victim.
In a victim impact statement read out in court, the survivor expressed the deep emotional toll of the abuse: 'I never thought I would speak about it. I always sought to keep it to myself. I often think about what happened rather than what is happening, and he has been in my head a lot recently because of the trial. I worry about bumping into him every day, and I still have nightmares. I feel like this is something that will never go away, and something I will have to deal with for the rest of my life.' She further highlighted her struggle to cope, realising as she grew older that the acts were wrong, and finding some closure in the guilty verdict, though the trauma would persist indefinitely.
During mitigation, Hardman's barrister argued for leniency, citing his lack of previous convictions and a serious medical condition—a brain tumour and subsequent treatment that caused physical and mental impairments. The defence submitted that the offences occurred on just two occasions within weeks, rather than over a prolonged period, and requested a suspended sentence, describing the circumstances as unusual. However, Recorder Harrington dismissed the relevance of Hardman's previous good character in such cases, stating: 'The effect on her is plain to see. She is traumatised by the events that took place. Anyone would be moved by the victim impact statement. It is clear that it has impacted every aspect of her life, and it will continue to do so for the rest of her life.'
On Tuesday, Hardman, residing at Norley Road in Leigh, was sentenced to four years' imprisonment, of which he must serve two-thirds before release on licence. Additional measures included lifelong registration on the sex offenders' register, an indefinite sexual harm prevention order, and a restraining order prohibiting contact with the victim. The judge commended the victim's bravery in coming forward, giving evidence, and attending the hearing.
Following the sentencing, Detective Constable Caroline Wharmby of Cheshire Police praised the victim's courage: 'Hardman took advantage of his situation to sexually assault a child. I would like to commend the victim for showing such bravery in coming forward to report the two incidents and bringing this man to justice for his despicable actions.' The case underscores the ongoing efforts by Cheshire Constabulary to address historic child sex offences and support survivors in seeking justice.