LIAM WOOD FROM LITTLE HULTON CAUGHT IN SEXUAL PREDATION SCANDAL IN MANCHESTER

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Little Hulton, Liam Wood, aged 20, was brought before Manchester Crown Court to face serious allegations of engaging in predatory sexual behavior involving a minor. The court heard that Wood had initiated a series of inappropriate and sexually explicit communications with a girl under the age of 16, which took place over a single night in January.

According to the prosecution, Wood first contacted the young girl, asking her to send a 'cute pic' of herself. She responded by sending a photograph of her face. However, the situation quickly escalated as Wood, who was in a relationship at the time, then requested more explicit images from her. The court was told that he also sent her pictures of his genitals, further crossing the boundaries of acceptable conduct.

Prosecutor Michael Lavery detailed that Wood explicitly expressed his desire to have sexual relations with the girl and instructed her to delete their messages, which she naively did, believing she was protecting herself. The following day, the girl confided in her friends about the incident, which prompted her teachers to notify the police authorities. Once arrested, Wood admitted to the allegations, acknowledging his inappropriate behavior.

The court heard that Wood’s actions had a significant negative impact on the vulnerable teenager, exacerbating her emotional and psychological difficulties. The judge, Recorder Nick Clarke QC, acknowledged that such behavior is serious and typically warrants a custodial sentence. However, in light of the current circumstances, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the associated restrictions on prison rehabilitation programs, the judge decided against immediate imprisonment.

During the sentencing, Recorder Clarke expressed his sympathies for the victim, praising her courage in coming forward and assisting law enforcement. He emphasized that her conduct was mature and commendable. The judge also noted that Wood’s behavior was predatory and crossed the threshold for custody, but ultimately decided on a suspended sentence.

Wood, who resides on Coniston Avenue in Little Hulton, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, causing a child to watch a sexual act, and engaging in sexual communication with a minor. The court sentenced him to eight months in prison, suspended for two years. Additionally, he was ordered to observe a four-month curfew from 7 pm to 7 am, complete the two-year Horizon programme for sex offenders, and undertake 120 hours of unpaid community service.

In delivering the sentence, Recorder Clarke made it clear that the court’s primary concern was the protection of the victim and the importance of holding offenders accountable. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by online predators and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding minors from exploitation.