LIAM WILLIAMS FROM WIGSTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON 10-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN LEICESTER

In a case that has shocked the local community, Liam Williams, a 34-year-old man from Wigston, was sentenced to 18 months in prison following his conviction for a disturbing sexual assault on a young girl. The incident, which took place in August 2013, involved Williams groping a 10-year-old girl, an act that has left lasting scars on the victim and her family.

Williams, who resides on St Thomas Road in Wigston, faced charges of sexual assault on a girl under the age of 13. He entered a plea of not guilty at the outset but was found guilty after a trial held at Leicester Crown Court last month. The court heard how Williams had asked the young girl if she enjoyed the touching and instructed her not to tell anyone about what had happened, actions that compounded the trauma inflicted upon her.

During the sentencing, Recorder Tim Raggatt QC emphasized the gravity of the crime, stating, “Childhood is precious. It is supposed to be one of the most secure and happy and beautiful times of our lives. You entered this little girl’s childhood and degraded it for your own sexual gratification.” The judge’s words underscored the heinous nature of the offense and the betrayal of trust involved.

Prosecutor Ben Gow detailed the profound impact the assault had on the victim and her mother. He explained that the mother had to take three months off work and resorted to medication to manage her anxiety, highlighting the emotional toll the incident had caused. The young girl, who was required to give evidence during the trial, was described as being very upset by the process, illustrating the lasting psychological effects of the assault.

Williams’s defense attorney, Scott Brady, argued that his client would now face the loss of his employment, despite maintaining his innocence. However, the court was unpersuaded, with the judge describing Williams’s actions as a “grotesque crime” and condemning his cynical abuse of the young girl’s trust.

As part of the sentence, Williams was placed under a sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits him from having any contact with females under the age of 18 until further notice. Additionally, a restraining order was issued to prevent him from contacting the victim or her mother, aiming to protect the family from further distress. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness with which such offenses are treated and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children from predators in the community.