JOSEPH EDWARDS FROM NETHERTON SENTENCED FOR ABUSING GRANDDAUGHTER DURING SEASIDE TRIPS IN BOOTLE AND SOUTHPORT

In October 2018, a deeply disturbing case emerged involving Joseph Edwards, a 69-year-old man from Simon’s Croft, Netherton, Bootle, who was convicted of sexually abusing his own granddaughter over a period of several years. The victim, now an adult and mother of two, courageously came forward to reveal the extent of her trauma, including the vile messages Edwards sent her during their abusive relationship.

Edwards began his predatory behavior when his granddaughter was just 13 years old. It started with small, inappropriate touches on her body, specifically on her buttocks, which marked the beginning of a series of abusive acts. As the years progressed, Edwards’s misconduct escalated, and he took her on trips to the seaside, notably to Southport in Merseyside, where most of the abuse occurred. These trips were kept secret from other family members, with Edwards often taking her in his car, providing her with treats like cans of Dr Pepper and pizza, creating an illusion of normalcy that masked the sinister intent behind these outings.

During the trial at Liverpool Crown Court, the victim recounted the emotional and physical abuse she endured. She described how Edwards would send her disturbing text messages, expressing his love and obsession. In one such message, he wrote, “I can’t stop it, I love you so,” and in others, he expressed his desire for a romantic and sexual relationship, saying, “I want you in all ways is that okay?” and “I just want to be happy with you and no one else. I am sorry I can’t stop it, I love you so much.” These messages revealed the extent of Edwards’s manipulative and predatory behavior, which deeply confused the young girl.

She also shared that her relationship with her family was strained, and Edwards exploited her trust by pretending to be supportive and caring. It was only years later that she confronted him about the abuse, asking him why he had molested her. Despite her efforts to seek help, some family members refused to believe her allegations when she showed them the sickening texts and described her experiences.

During the trial, Edwards’s family stood by him, but the court found him guilty of six counts of sexual activity with a child. He was subsequently sentenced to 15 months in prison. As part of his punishment, Edwards is required to sign the sex offenders’ register for ten years. Additionally, Judge Neil Flewitt imposed a five-year restraining order to prevent him from contacting the victim and to keep her safe from further harm.

In her statement following the sentencing, the victim reflected on the complex relationship she had with her grandfather. She expressed that, despite the abuse, there was a “really special bond” and that Edwards was one of the few family members who listened to her when others did not. She recounted the horrifying moment when, at age 15, Edwards began kissing her and trying to touch her inappropriately, including attempts to place his hand between her legs. Her account underscores the profound impact of his actions and the long-lasting trauma inflicted upon her.