CHILD RAPIST USED THREATS TO KEEP HIS DEVASTATED VICTIMS QUIET
A man with a history of abusing a young child was brought to justice after a lengthy campaign of sexual assault.Christopher McConnell prolonged the victim’s suffering by denying responsibility, which led to an eight-day trial at Liverpool Crown Court.
The jury was informed that McConnell would sometimes place a pillow over the child's face when they showed distress and used threats to silence them.
The 36-year-old, who was residing in Warrington before moving to Prestbury Drive, Stockport, was found guilty of four counts of child rape.
He was subsequently sentenced today.
The investigation into McConnell started in September 2021, when Cheshire Constabulary received reports alleging that he had raped and assaulted a young child.
The abuse occurred over a span of four years and involved a victim under 13 years old.
Law enforcement officials gathered evidence which led to McConnell being charged.
He was sentenced to 18 years in prison.
After the verdict, Detective Constable Irene Cadman, who led the inquiry, stated: “McConnell’s conviction highlights the bravery of the victim and their family during this process.
He is described as a violent and manipulative individual who subjected his victim to extensive sexual abuse and physical violence.
“He repeatedly threatened his victim and placed a pillow over their face if they became upset while he was raping them.
Even when faced with all the evidence against him, he refused to admit his guilt.
Instead, he chose to make the victim’s family sit through the hearing and listen to the horrific offences that he committed.
“Thankfully, as a result of the statements provided by the victim, and the evidence we gathered the jury have seen through his lies and he is now being held accountable for his actions.” Detective Inspector Andrew Wallace of the Northern Public Protection Team added: “This has been a complex investigation and I would like to commend DC Cadman for her dedication and commitment throughout the case.
No-one should have to experience what this victim has been through and if anything can be achieved from this case, I hope that it encourages other victims to come forward.
"Cheshire Constabulary takes any allegation of sexual offences extremely seriously, and any allegation will be thoroughly investigated, with the wishes and needs of the victim as our main priority.”
