RUNCORN MAN JAILED FOR TWO-YEAR CHILD ABUSE AND SEXUAL OFFENCES

Staff at a bowling alley helped uncover a child rapist's heinous crimes after observing inappropriate behavior. The court was informed that Christopher Aherne's abuse lasted over a two-year span. In December 2021, staff noticed him acting inappropriately with a child, prompting police to attend. However, Aherne had already left the scene by then. Following their investigation, police identified him, and the victim provided detailed accounts of the abuse. During his arrest at his garage, officers recovered his mobile phone, discovering numerous inappropriate images and messages to the victim requesting photographs. Aherne, from Perrin Avenue, Runcorn, faced charges of rape and multiple sexual offences. He pleaded guilty to two counts of rape and 13 counts of sexual activity with a child. He was subsequently sentenced to 19 years and six months in prison and ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life. Additionally, he admitted to supplying Class A drugs, possessing indecent images, and creating five indecent images. Prosecutor DC Christopher Tyrer praised the victim’s bravery and stated that Aherne showed no remorse. He expressed hope that the lengthy sentence would give the victim some closure and urged others to report sexual offences, emphasizing that victims have the right to anonymity and support from police and related agencies. The police reaffirmed their commitment to investigating all allegations of sexual offences seriously, encouraging victims to come forward.