ALEXANDER POTTS FROM NEWTON-LE-WILLOWS SENTENCED FOR UNDERAGE SEX WITH 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN LIVERPOOL

In March 2018, Alexander Potts, a 23-year-old man from Newton-le-Willows, was sentenced to prison for engaging in sexual activities with a 14-year-old girl. The case was heard at Liverpool Crown Court, where it was revealed that Potts had lied about his age to the young girl and had been involved in three separate sexual encounters with her.

According to court proceedings, the teenage girl, who was only 14 at the time, initially believed that Potts was 18 years old. He had told her he was 18, despite being 22, and the two had socialized on a few occasions before he invited her to his home. At the time, Potts was living with his partner and their child. The girl consented to the sexual activities, but the court emphasized that the law is designed to protect such immature minors from exploitation, regardless of apparent consent.

The court heard that on two occasions, the girl and Potts engaged in consensual sex. However, she later became aware of his true age and circumstances. Despite this, Potts maintained that he had been truthful about his age, and they continued their sexual relationship within the same week in late 2016. This deception and the subsequent actions led to his conviction.

During the sentencing, the girl's mother provided an impact statement, describing how her daughter's behavior had been affected by the incident. The court took these factors into account when imposing its sentence.

Judge Neil Flewitt, QC, sentenced Potts to five years in prison and also issued a ten-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which restricts his contact with the victim. Additionally, a five-year restraining order was put in place to prevent him from approaching the girl. As part of his sentence, Potts was ordered to register as a sex offender for life.

It was noted that Potts has a history of previous convictions, including assault and burglary. At the time of the offenses, there was no involvement of alcohol or drugs, and the case was not classified as a breach of trust. Furthermore, it was revealed that Potts is expecting a third child, adding a personal dimension to the case and its repercussions.