BRIAN HARDAKER FROM NETHERTON NAMED AFTER 9-YEAR-OLD VICTIM IN LIVERPOOL COURT SCANDAL

In a groundbreaking case that has shocked the community of Netherton and the wider Liverpool area, a young girl, only nine years old, took the extraordinary step of writing directly to a judge in order to demand justice and transparency. Her plea was motivated by a desire to prevent other children from suffering the same trauma she endured at the hands of Brian Hardaker, a man who had previously been shielded from public scrutiny due to legal restrictions.

During proceedings at Liverpool Crown Court, Judge Mark Brown was presented with a heartfelt letter penned by the young girl. In her letter, she explicitly requested that the court publicly identify Brian Hardaker, a convicted paedophile, despite existing legal bans that aimed to keep his name confidential. The girl expressed her initial fears that revealing his identity might lead to her being further victimized or not believed, but she conveyed her relief upon realizing that many people had shown her kindness and support.

She wrote, “I want you to let Brian Hardaker be named for what he did to me. At first I was scared that people were going to be nasty to me and not believe me about what I said he had done to me. But I now know people do actually believe me and have been kind to me. I asked my mum if he’d hurt anyone else but she said ‘I don’t know’.” Her letter continued, emphasizing her hope that public awareness of his crimes might prevent other children from becoming victims. “I want people to know what he’s done and why he’s gone to prison in case he’s hurt anyone else. My mum and family and mum’s friends have all believed me and all said I’m brave for talking about it.”

Brian Hardaker, aged 38 and residing in Netherton, Liverpool, was convicted of serious sexual offenses against the young girl. His crimes included rape and the production of indecent photographs and videos, some depicting children being raped. The investigation was initiated after engineers, while repairing his computer, discovered numerous disturbing images. The police swiftly arrested him, leading to his guilty plea in court.

Judge Mark Brown sentenced Hardaker to a minimum of six and a half years in prison, with the possibility of parole after that period. However, the judge issued a stern warning that the sentence could effectively amount to a life term, as Hardaker might never be released. The court described the sentence as an indeterminate sentence for public protection, which in practical terms equates to a life sentence, underscoring the severity of his crimes.

The judge also acknowledged the emotional impact on the young victim, highlighting her bravery in speaking out. The girl’s mother expressed her relief and pride in her daughter’s resilience, stating, “Now it’s like having my little girl, my angel, back again.” The case has sparked widespread discussion about the importance of protecting victims and the potential benefits of allowing victims, especially children, to have a voice in the justice process.