ANTHONY TURNER FROM FAZAKERLEY SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR CHILD RAPE IN LIVERPOOL

In a harrowing case that unfolded at Liverpool Crown Court, Anthony Turner, a 31-year-old man from Fazakerley, was convicted of heinous crimes involving the sexual assault of a young girl. The courtroom was filled with tension as Turner was brought before the judge to face the consequences of his actions, which included the rape of a seven-year-old girl and subsequent threats to her life if she dared to speak out.

During the proceedings, a particularly disturbing incident occurred when Turner, in a display of defiance, fixated his gaze on the victim’s mother. This act of blatant disrespect and intimidation drew a sharp rebuke from the presiding judge, Denis Watson QC, who sternly commanded Turner, “Don’t look at her – don’t you dare look at her.” The judge’s words underscored the gravity of Turner’s misconduct and the seriousness with which the court viewed such behavior.

Turner’s crimes were detailed during the trial, revealing that he had raped the young girl and then threatened to kill her if she disclosed what had happened. The court heard that Turner’s actions had inflicted severe psychological trauma on the victim, who has since been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The prosecuting attorney, Frank Dillon, emphasized the lasting impact on the girl, stating, “She has been unable to deal with what has happened. She sleeps with the light on because she is scared of the defendant.”

Furthermore, Dillon expressed concern over the emotional well-being of the victim’s mother, who fears the long-term effects on her daughter as she matures and becomes more aware of the trauma inflicted upon her. The family’s apprehension about potential contact with Turner’s relatives was also highlighted, reflecting the ongoing distress caused by the case.

It was revealed that Turner had a criminal history comprising eight previous convictions for fourteen offences, including dishonesty, burglary, and theft. Notably, he had no prior record of sexual offenses, which added a complex layer to the case. His defense attorney, Martine Snowdon, argued that the four rapes occurred over a six-month period and suggested that Turner’s offending was not part of a sustained campaign. She also highlighted that Turner’s life had been marred by personal tragedy and that he had demonstrated capacity for love, tenderness, and a strong work ethic in the past.

Judge Watson, however, was unequivocal in his assessment of the harm caused. He stated that Turner’s actions had resulted in “severe psychological harm” to the young girl, emphasizing the grooming process and deliberate isolation that preceded the assaults. The judge recounted the threats Turner made, warning the girl that her life would be in danger if she told anyone about the abuse, and that her own mother would be killed if she disclosed the crimes.

As a result of his conviction, Turner was sentenced to a total of 18 years in prison, with an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order imposed to restrict his future conduct. Additionally, he was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life. The court also issued a Section 236A sentence, which includes an extra year on license and strict conditions upon release. Judge Watson clarified that Turner’s release would not be automatic; he would remain in custody until at least half of his sentence had been served, and it was possible he could serve the entire term.

At the conclusion of the sentencing, Turner showed no emotion as he waved to family members in the courtroom, who responded with shouts of “Love you Ant.” The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Fazakerley and highlights the ongoing challenges faced by victims of such heinous crimes.