DARREN HILTON SENTENCED FOR RAPE OF FIVE-YEAR-OLD IN BLACKPOOL AND HUYTON

In a case that has shocked the communities of Blackpool and Huyton, Darren Hilton, aged 26, was sentenced to a decade behind bars after being found guilty of heinous crimes involving a young child. The offenses took place in 1999, when Hilton was residing in Huyton, Merseyside, and involved the sexual assault of a five-year-old boy over three separate occasions.

It was only in April of this year that the disturbing details came to light, prompting an investigation that culminated in Hilton's conviction. The child's mother, noticing a significant change in her son's behavior, became concerned and reported her suspicions to social services. This intervention led to the uncovering of the abuse, which had been concealed for years.

The trial, held at Liverpool Crown Court, revealed that the assaults occurred in an alleyway near the child's home, a location that added to the trauma experienced by the young victim. Prosecutor Raymond Herman described how Hilton threatened the boy, warning him that he would be sent to a 'naughty boys' home' if he disclosed what had happened. Such threats were intended to silence the child and prevent any disclosure of the abuse.

During the proceedings, Hilton denied all allegations, but the court found sufficient evidence to convict him of one count of rape and four counts of indecent assault. The presiding judge, Mr. Justice Hilton, emphasized the lasting impact of the abuse, stating that the trauma was 'quite clearly still etched' in the boy's memory. The seriousness of the case was underscored by the judge's remarks, highlighting the gravity of such offenses.

As part of his sentence, Hilton was also ordered to register as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community from further harm. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and swift action in protecting vulnerable children from abuse.