FORMBY EX-TEACHER MICHAEL COWEN SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS FOR ABUSING SEVEN-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN PRESTON

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Formby and the surrounding areas, Michael Cowen, a 38-year-old former teacher, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of sexually abusing a seven-year-old girl. The incident took place in March 2017, and the court proceedings revealed the disturbing details of Cowen’s actions.

According to court reports, Cowen approached the young girl with seemingly innocent intentions, asking her if she wanted to play a game. However, this interaction quickly took a sinister turn as Cowen proceeded to sexually assault the child. The young girl confided in her mother about the abuse, prompting her to report the matter to the police, which led to Cowen’s arrest and subsequent prosecution.

During the trial at Preston Crown Court, Cowen pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including sexual assault by penetration, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, sexual assault, and possession of an indecent image believed to be of the girl. The court was also informed that Cowen possessed an indecent image, which further implicated him in the case.

The victim’s mother, who for legal reasons cannot be identified, provided a heartfelt victim impact statement. She explained that she was called into her daughter’s school to discuss conversations her daughter had been having with her friends. The mother expressed her deep concern and worry about the exposure her young child had faced at such a tender age, emphasizing the emotional toll the incident has taken on her family.

Judge James Adkin, presiding over the case, delivered a stern sentence to Cowen. He acknowledged that Cowen’s state of disinhibition, likely caused by intoxication on the night of the incident, played a role in his actions. The judge highlighted Cowen’s interest in indecent pornography, which he suggested contributed to his inability to control his impulses, ultimately leading to the abuse.

Judge Adkin also praised the resilience of the young girl, noting that she continues to talk about what happened. He credited her mother’s careful handling of her disclosure and the court proceedings for her current state of relative stability. The judge emphasized that her strength is a testament to the support she received during this difficult time.

It was noted during the hearing that Cowen had no prior criminal convictions and was highly regarded in references submitted to the court. Despite this, the judge made it clear that Cowen’s actions had serious consequences. He stated that Cowen’s loss of employment and reputation was a direct result of his inability to control his sexual urges, which led him to commit such a heinous act.

In sentencing, Cowen was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Additionally, the court imposed an indefinite sexual harm prevention order to protect the community from any future risk he might pose. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of sexual abuse and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children from predators.