LIAM PAUL SCOTT FROM DARLINGTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL PREDATION IN COUNTY DURHAM

A man identified as Liam Paul Scott, known to have connections to Darlington, has been convicted and sentenced for engaging in disturbing sexual misconduct involving a minor. The case, which has shocked the local community, began to unfold in 2018 when Scott initiated contact with a 14-year-old boy through a fabricated profile on a gay dating website.

According to reports, Scott traveled from North Yorkshire to a designated parking area in County Durham with the intent to meet the young teenager. Once there, he persuaded the boy to perform oral sex on him in exchange for a sum of £30. The situation escalated when the boy, clearly uncomfortable, rejected further sexual advances. In response, Scott attempted to bribe the boy with an increased offer of £100. When this too was refused, Scott resorted to threats, explicitly warning the boy that he would be raped if he did not comply.

The heinous nature of Scott’s actions only came to light after the victim, overwhelmed by trauma, confided in his mother. The mother promptly contacted the police, leading to a thorough investigation. During the subsequent legal proceedings, Scott, aged 27 and residing on Thompson Road West in Darlington, pleaded guilty to charges of engaging in sexual activity with a child at Durham Crown Court.

On Tuesday, Scott was sentenced to four and a half years in prison. In addition to his incarceration, he has been placed on the sex offenders' register for life, a measure designed to monitor and restrict his activities post-release. Furthermore, a restraining order has been issued to prevent him from making any contact with the victim. Scott is also subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that will remain in effect for ten years, restricting his behavior and access to vulnerable individuals.

Detective Constable Jonathan Stoker, who led the investigation, commended the bravery of the young victim for coming forward. He described Scott as a particularly malicious sexual predator who showed no remorse and continued to blame the child for the incident. Detective Stoker emphasized the importance of working closely with the Crown Prosecution Service to ensure justice was served, expressing relief that Scott would now be incarcerated and unable to harm other children. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect minors from predatory individuals and underscores the importance of vigilance and support for victims of such crimes.