CHRISTOPHER RANTELL FROM ATHERTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING UNDERAGE GIRL

In February 2013, a disturbing case involving a chef from Atherton captured public attention when it was revealed that he had engaged in a sexual relationship with a minor. Christopher Rantell, aged 37 and residing on Peak Avenue in Atherton, was initially sentenced to six years in prison after being convicted of multiple counts of sexual activity with a child. The case was particularly shocking because Rantell exploited the trust and attraction of a 15-year-old girl, which ultimately led to her becoming pregnant.

Rantell's criminal actions came to light after a DNA test was conducted on the girl’s aborted baby, conclusively establishing his paternity. It was only then that he admitted to the charges, which included three counts of sexual activity with a minor. The court heard that the sexual encounters began with innocent acts such as kissing but quickly escalated to regular sexual intercourse. These acts reportedly took place in various locations, including a park and public toilets, highlighting the reckless and public nature of his misconduct.

At the time of the offenses, Rantell was not only involved with the underage girl but also had a partner who was pregnant or about to become pregnant. The court was informed that he had a long history of criminal behavior, which added to the gravity of his actions. The situation worsened when the girl, by then 16, attempted to end the relationship. Rantell responded with aggression, prompting her to seek police intervention. During the investigation, her pregnancy was confirmed, further implicating Rantell in the serious offenses.

During the appeal hearing, the Court of Appeal reviewed the original sentence handed down in October of the previous year. Lord Justice Rix, delivering the judgment, stated that the initial sentence was excessively harsh. The court considered the guilty pleas and the circumstances surrounding the case, ultimately reducing Rantell’s prison term to three years and nine months. The judges emphasized that the original starting point for sentencing was