CHRISTOPHER CROSTON FROM LIVERPOOL AND NETHERTON SENTENCED IN PRESTON FOR CHILD RAPE
| Red Rose Database
Liverpool Preston Netherton Rapist
In a case that has shocked the local communities, Christopher Croston, a 31-year-old man originally from Netherton, Liverpool, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for the heinous crimes of raping and sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl in Preston. The incident took place on the evening of September 30, 2013, and the case has since garnered significant attention from law enforcement and the public alike.
According to court records, Croston admitted to the charges of rape and sexual assault during his appearance at Preston Crown Court in December. The court also imposed an extended license period of four years, which means that after serving his prison term, Croston will be subject to additional supervision and restrictions for a further four years. The sentencing reflects the severity of the crime and the impact it has had on the victim and her family.
Lancashire Police launched a thorough investigation following the distressing incident. The victim, a 14-year-old girl, was walking home along Ribbleton Avenue in the Ribbleton area of Preston around 8:10 PM BST when she was approached by a man who attempted to engage her in conversation. The situation escalated quickly when the man, later identified as Croston, followed her to a nearby RSPCA building. There, he forcibly dragged her down some steps, pushed her to the ground, and carried out the assault before fleeing the scene.
Authorities acted swiftly to trace Croston, eventually locating him at an address in Liverpool. His arrest marked a significant breakthrough in the case, allowing law enforcement to bring him into custody and proceed with the legal process. Detective Chief Inspector Andy Gilbert of Lancashire Police described the crime as “despicable,” emphasizing the gravity of Croston’s actions. He also highlighted that Croston’s decision to plead guilty was a positive aspect of the case, as it spared the young victim the ordeal of a trial.
The victim, who has shown remarkable bravery throughout the investigation, was supported by her family and specially trained officers dedicated to assisting victims of sexual assault. Her mother, who has chosen to remain anonymous, expressed her feelings about the case, stating, “Knowing that justice has been done and punishment will be served offers some consolation, but what he did to my daughter will live with her and me forever and for that I will never forgive him.” The case underscores the importance of community vigilance and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals from such despicable acts.
According to court records, Croston admitted to the charges of rape and sexual assault during his appearance at Preston Crown Court in December. The court also imposed an extended license period of four years, which means that after serving his prison term, Croston will be subject to additional supervision and restrictions for a further four years. The sentencing reflects the severity of the crime and the impact it has had on the victim and her family.
Lancashire Police launched a thorough investigation following the distressing incident. The victim, a 14-year-old girl, was walking home along Ribbleton Avenue in the Ribbleton area of Preston around 8:10 PM BST when she was approached by a man who attempted to engage her in conversation. The situation escalated quickly when the man, later identified as Croston, followed her to a nearby RSPCA building. There, he forcibly dragged her down some steps, pushed her to the ground, and carried out the assault before fleeing the scene.
Authorities acted swiftly to trace Croston, eventually locating him at an address in Liverpool. His arrest marked a significant breakthrough in the case, allowing law enforcement to bring him into custody and proceed with the legal process. Detective Chief Inspector Andy Gilbert of Lancashire Police described the crime as “despicable,” emphasizing the gravity of Croston’s actions. He also highlighted that Croston’s decision to plead guilty was a positive aspect of the case, as it spared the young victim the ordeal of a trial.
The victim, who has shown remarkable bravery throughout the investigation, was supported by her family and specially trained officers dedicated to assisting victims of sexual assault. Her mother, who has chosen to remain anonymous, expressed her feelings about the case, stating, “Knowing that justice has been done and punishment will be served offers some consolation, but what he did to my daughter will live with her and me forever and for that I will never forgive him.” The case underscores the importance of community vigilance and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals from such despicable acts.