ERIK BAINES JAGGER SENTENCED IN LIVERPOOL FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

In a case that has shocked the Liverpool community, 88-year-old Eric Baines Jagger was sentenced to prison for heinous sexual offenses committed against a young girl during the early 1990s. The court heard that Jagger, who is set to turn 89 in December, pleaded guilty to four counts of sexually assaulting the girl, who was between the ages of three and six at the time of the abuse.

The Liverpool Crown Court was informed that the victim, now an adult, confided in her mother about the traumatic experiences from her childhood after becoming upset while discussing her relationships with boyfriends. Her statement revealed the profound and lasting impact the abuse had on her life, illustrating her caring nature and the deep scars left by Jagger’s actions. Prosecutor Andrew Downey emphasized the emotional toll, describing her as a young woman who, despite her suffering, continues to care more for others than herself, yet remains deeply affected by her past.

Jagger, a former heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driver, was arrested following the victim’s disclosure. During police interviews, he not only admitted to the four counts but also provided additional details about the incidents that the victim had forgotten or was unaware of. Interestingly, Jagger attempted to shift some blame onto the young girl, suggesting that she was responsible for what transpired, a claim that was strongly contested in court.

His defense lawyer, Ken Heckle, stated that Jagger no longer maintained the blame-shifting stance and described him as appearing quite “childlike” and prone to changing his mind. The lawyer highlighted Jagger’s background, noting his service as a Bevan Boy during World War II and his subsequent employment as a driver for the Royal Air Force. He portrayed Jagger as a man of previously good character who would face additional hardship in prison due to his advanced age. Furthermore, Heckle mentioned that Jagger had become estranged from his family and was ostracized by them.

Judge Stephen Everett delivered a sentence of three years in prison, remarking that the punishment could have been more severe had the offenses occurred after recent changes in the law. The judge described the crimes as “terrible” and emphasized the gravity of Jagger’s actions, stating, “It’s difficult to put into words what you did but it was a terrible, terrible thing. You have only yourself to blame that you have no loving family around you as you reach your final days. You showed no mercy and you can expect no mercy from this court.”

In addition to the custodial sentence, Jagger was subjected to a sexual offences prevention order and was required to comply with notification requirements, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct following his release. The case has left a lasting impact on the community and highlights the importance of justice for victims of childhood abuse, regardless of the passage of time.