MICHAEL BURTON SENTENCED TO 14 YEARS FOR SEXUAL OFFENCE IN RUNCORN AND ST HELENS

In a case that has spanned over two decades, Michael Burton, a man with ties to both Runcorn and St Helens, has been handed a significant prison sentence following his conviction for a serious sexual offence. The incident in question dates back to 1996, but it was only brought to light after the victim, now an adult, came forward with her allegations in June 2016.

Michael Burton, aged 46 at the time of sentencing, was tried over a period of three days at Liverpool Crown Court. The court heard that Burton, who was previously residing in Runcorn and most recently living on Pennine Drive in St Helens, was found guilty of engaging in unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13. The conviction was handed down on December 13, 2017, and Burton was sentenced to a term of 14 years in prison.

In addition to his prison sentence, Burton was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life, reflecting the gravity of his crimes. The victim, who was only 12 years old at the time of the offence, reported that Burton had taken advantage of her vulnerabilities by grooming her and gaining her trust before committing the sexual act. The offence reportedly occurred in a house located in Runcorn.

The victim’s courage in coming forward prompted a police investigation, which uncovered the disturbing details of Burton’s misconduct. She recounted that Burton, who was in his mid-twenties at the time, exploited her trust and befriended her before the assault. Her family and she endured a harrowing period over the subsequent 18 months as the case was built and evidence was presented.

Burton did not admit to his involvement during the trial, which added to the emotional strain experienced by the victim and her family. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of the offence and the importance of justice for victims of such crimes, regardless of how much time has passed since the incident occurred.