ST HELENS CHILD RAPIST ROBERT ORMROD SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS FOR ABUSE AND THREATS

In April 2016, a disturbing case emerged from St Helens involving Robert David Ormrod, a 43-year-old man who was convicted of heinous crimes against young children. The court heard that Ormrod had subjected a young girl, whose age ranged between eight and 14 during the period of abuse, to a prolonged and systematic campaign of sexual assault spanning over seven years.

During the trial at Liverpool Crown Court, it was revealed that Ormrod had committed multiple acts of rape against this girl. The severity of his actions was compounded by his threats to drown her if she ever disclosed the abuse, instilling a deep sense of fear and helplessness in his young victim. Furthermore, Ormrod threatened that if she told anyone about the abuse, he would turn his attention to her sister, adding a layer of intimidation and coercion to his crimes.

Details of the case indicated that Ormrod’s wife was aware of at least one incident of abuse. However, her response was limited to warning him to “stop or he would get in trouble,” which did little to prevent the ongoing violations. The court also found that Ormrod was responsible for abusing other children, including a six-year-old boy and another young girl, although these incidents involved only single episodes of misconduct. These additional offenses further demonstrated the extent of his predatory behavior.

Judge Thomas Teague, QC, presiding over the case, sentenced Ormrod to 20 years in prison. In his remarks, the judge emphasized the depravity of Ormrod’s actions, stating, “The bare recital of these convictions gives some indication of the level of depravity to which you sank.”

The court also noted the damaging impact of the abuse on the children involved. It was reported that the victims’ mental health and well-being had deteriorated since the incidents, with at least two requiring intervention from authorities to address their ongoing needs.

While Ormrod will be eligible for parole after serving half of his sentence, his release will depend on whether a parole board determines that he no longer poses a threat to the public. The case highlights the grave dangers posed by individuals like Ormrod and underscores the importance of vigilant protective measures for vulnerable children in the community of St Helens.