CHRISTOPHER MCCAIN OF HUYTON SENTENCED IN ST HELENS FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS
A 20-year-old man identified as Christopher McCain, residing on Skipton Road in Huyton, has been sentenced to over four years in prison for a series of sexual assaults on vulnerable young girls in St Helens town centre during the summer of 2015.McCain pleaded guilty to the charges, and a judge at Liverpool Crown Court ordered that he serve a prison term of four years and eight months.
In addition to his custodial sentence, he was issued a six-year Sexual Offences Prevention Order and will remain on the Sex Offenders' Register for life.
After the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Jim Starkey of St Helens CID commented: "Today's sentence should send out a very clear message to paedophiles that sexual activity with children will be dealt with extremely seriously." He further described McCain as a "predatory offender who repeatedly took advantage of vulnerable young girls," noting the severe psychological impact on his victims.
Detective Starkey praised the bravery of the victims in giving evidence, saying, "I would like to praise the victims for their immense bravery in giving evidence to help secure justice and has been supported every step of the way by the police and our partners." He urged other victims of sexual offences, both past and present, to come forward and seek help instead of suffering in silence.
The police force emphasized its commitment to safeguarding children.
Starkey added, "We view the abuse of any child as unacceptable and will work with partner agencies to investigate and, where possible, prevent such abuse.
We all have a duty of care to protect young people from harm.
I encourage parents, grandparents, teachers, health professionals, social services, and other adults to educate themselves about online safety and child sexual exploitation." Merseyside Police promotes awareness through its website, www.listentomystory.co.uk, which highlights issues from young people's perspectives and provides resources for those concerned about a child's safety.
Starkey advised that the site can help victims find appropriate support and offers information for young people who suspect they are being exploited or have concerns about a peer.
For anyone wishing to report a sexual offence or share relevant information, authorities ask them to contact Merseyside Police at 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
