Steven Murphy

Steven Murphy, a 43-year-old man from Preston, Lancashire, was sentenced to 11 years in prison following his conviction for multiple sexual offences committed against a woman and her 12-year-old daughter. The incidents occurred in April 2025 at the woman's home in Preston, where Murphy had been invited after initially contacting her via Facebook.

Murphy met the woman in April 2025 through a Facebook interaction and was invited to her home, where she was celebrating her daughter's participation in a talent show. After offering to drive other guests home, Murphy returned to the house alone, aware that only the woman and her daughter remained. He then sexually assaulted the woman before proceeding to the child's bedroom.

• Murphy entered the 12-year-old girl's bedroom while she was trying to sleep.
• He climbed into her bed and assaulted her, attempting to rape her.
• The girl repeatedly told him to leave, and he eventually exited the home.

Murphy denied the charges but was found guilty after a trial at Preston Crown Court. He was convicted of one count of sexual assault against the woman, two counts of sexual assault, and one count of attempted rape against the child. On 1 December 2025, the court sentenced him to 11 years' imprisonment with an additional eight-year extended licence, classifying him as a dangerous offender to protect the public through extended supervision post-release.

Detective Sergeant Sue Wilson from Preston CID commended the victims' bravery in a statement released by Lancashire Police: 'First and foremost I would like to commend the two victims for their courage in coming forward and reporting what happened to them and for their bravery throughout the judicial process. I hope this sentence will mean that they can try to move forward with their lives knowing this dangerous predator is behind bars.' The case was investigated by Lancashire Police, highlighting their commitment to prosecuting sexual offenders professionally and sensitively.

The sentencing took place at Preston Crown Court, underscoring the severity of the offences involving the attempted rape of a minor and sexual assault. Murphy, residing at Tiller Road, Cottam, Preston, will serve his custodial sentence followed by the extended licence period.