Aaron Ward

Aaron Ward, a 26-year-old man from St Helens, was sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court on Tuesday, February 10, for a series of historic child sexual offences committed against a young girl spanning several years.

The offences came to light following a thorough investigation by Merseyside Police. In July of the previous year, reports emerged detailing the abuse Ward had inflicted on the victim. He was subsequently charged with six sex offences. Ward pleaded guilty to three counts: assault by touching and causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. However, he was found guilty at trial of the more serious charges of rape of a child and assault by penetration.

During the court proceedings, the prosecution highlighted the prolonged nature of the abuse, which had a devastating impact on the young victim. Detective Constable Molly McKeown, the officer in charge of the investigation, commended the victim's courage in coming forward despite her young age. 'The victim showed immense courage... and was extremely brave to speak to police about this horrendous abuse,' McKeown stated, emphasising the dedication of the Knowsley and St Helens Child Protection team in securing justice.

Ward, residing on Gamble Avenue in Windlehurst, St Helens, received a 10-year custodial sentence, extended by an additional year on licence. He was also made subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely. This sentencing underscores Merseyside Police's commitment to protecting children from sexual exploitation, as articulated by McKeown: 'Merseyside Police is completely committed to protecting children from sexual abuse and those who seek to do them harm.'

The case was reported by the St Helens Star, drawing on details from the court hearing and police statements to provide full context on the investigation and outcome.