GARY VON MULLER FROM HUYTON SENTENCED FOR ATTEMPTED RAPE OF TODDLER IN LIVERPOOL

In a case that has shocked the local community of Huyton and the wider Liverpool area, Gary Von Muller, aged 23, was convicted of heinous crimes involving a young child and subsequently sentenced to a significant prison term. The incident, which took place in December of the previous year, involved an attempted sexual assault on a two-year-old girl, leading to severe injuries and a traumatic experience for the victim and her family.

Von Muller was sentenced in September 2002 at Liverpool Crown Court to seven years in prison for his actions. The court also imposed an extended licence period of seven years, meaning that if he breaches any conditions during this time after his release, he could be recalled to serve additional time. This extended supervision reflects the gravity of his crimes and the concern for public safety.

The case garnered further attention in November 2002 when Von Muller was formally sentenced for the attack. The court heard that he had caused a broken leg to the young girl during the assault, which he attempted to justify by claiming that his dog had inflicted the injuries. However, evidence presented during the trial indicated that the dog was likely trying to protect the victim, and the jury found Von Muller guilty of attempted rape and inflicting grievous bodily harm.

During the sentencing, Judge John Phipps described the offences as invoking feelings of revulsion and disbelief, emphasizing the severity of the crimes committed. The attack occurred while the child's mother was asleep at their residence in Huyton, adding a layer of betrayal and shock to the case. The court also ordered Von Muller to be placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and to serve an extended licence period of 14 years.

Following the sentencing, the victim’s family expressed their disappointment, feeling that justice had not been fully served. The victim’s grandmother stated, “We feel let down. This isn’t justice. What he did has destroyed our lives and my daughter, the victim’s mother, no longer trusts any man.” The mother, who had known Von Muller for six years and trusted him before the incident, shared her heartbreak and disillusionment.

In response to the conviction, Von Muller’s legal team announced their intention to appeal. His solicitor, Paolo Martini, criticized the jury’s decision, claiming that they had been swayed by emotion rather than evidence, stating, “The jury used their hearts as opposed to their heads when considering whether he abused her.” The case continues to attract attention, with many awaiting further legal developments and potential appeals in the coming months.