MICHAEL CULLEN FROM WIDNES SENTENCED FOR CHILD MOLESTATION IN SHOCKING CASE
In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Widnes, Michael Cullen, aged 36, has been sentenced to prison after being found guilty of grooming and molesting a young boy.The heinous acts took place in April 2022, and the court heard how Cullen’s actions involved a calculated attempt to exploit the innocence of a minor.
Michael Cullen, a resident of Catherine Street in Widnes, was convicted of engaging in sexual activity with a child under the age of 16, as well as inciting the same child into sexual acts.
The case was brought to a close at Liverpool Crown Court, where Cullen appeared for sentencing on a Monday, following a jury trial that concluded last month.
Prosecutor Lee Bonner detailed the gravity of the charges, emphasizing that Cullen’s conduct was a clear breach of trust and a disgraceful abuse of his position.
The judge presiding over the case, David Swinnerton, summarized the disturbing facts of the case.
He described how Cullen had taken an active interest in the young boy, engaging in seemingly innocent activities that gradually took a darker turn.
During a water fight, Cullen splashed water on the boy’s crotch area, and later drew a dog on his thigh.
The court was told that Cullen also stroked the boy’s leg with his foot while they watched a film together, actions that, while appearing playful, were intended to establish a sexual interest.
According to the court, Cullen’s predatory behavior escalated when the boy went to sleep.
The victim awoke to find Cullen stroking his back and placing his hand down the boy’s shorts, touching his buttocks and genitals for a period of two to three minutes.
The defendant then coerced the boy into touching his own penis, first outside his clothing and then inside, for approximately five minutes.
The young victim was reportedly frozen in place during this assault, which only ceased when Cullen rolled over and stopped.
The court heard that Cullen’s actions were not isolated incidents but part of a pattern of grooming and abuse.
The judge described the case as involving a serious breach of trust, with Cullen’s conduct being particularly egregious given the vulnerability of the young victim.
As a result of his conviction, Cullen was sentenced to three years in prison.
Additionally, he was ordered to sign the sex offender register for life, comply with a sexual harm prevention order until further notice, and adhere to a restraining order that prohibits any contact with the child involved in the case.
The sentencing reflects the court’s view of the severity of Cullen’s crimes and the need to protect the community from further harm.
