SHAUN REDMOND FROM PRESTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON SCHOOLGIRL IN PENWORTHAM

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Shaun Redmond, a 22-year-old man from Preston, was convicted of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl in Penwortham. The incident took place in April of this year and has left lasting scars on the young victim.

According to court proceedings, Redmond was seen by witnesses engaging with the girl, who was outside playing with her younger brother. He approached her in a seemingly friendly manner, initiating a conversation. During their interaction, Redmond asked the girl if she was 16, attempting to gauge her age. Recognizing her vulnerability, he then instructed her brother to go home, claiming he wanted to show her his “den.”

Earlier that day, Redmond had been ejected from a pub in Preston for being intoxicated, which adds a troubling context to his subsequent actions. After convincing the girl to follow him, he led her into a secluded wooded area in Penwortham, where he committed the sexual assault. The young girl, overwhelmed and distressed, became visibly upset during the ordeal.

Following the assault, Redmond left the girl alone on a quiet lane, instructing her to find her way home. Fortunately, two women passing by noticed her in a state of distress—crying and attempting to cross a road alone. They intervened, comforted her, and eventually took her back to her home. The girl was found to be frightened and was seen talking to herself, repeatedly saying, “He has hurt me,” which underscored the trauma she had endured.

During the court hearing, Redmond admitted to sexually assaulting the girl. His defense lawyer, Guy Mathieson, expressed remorse on his behalf, stating that Redmond was “upset and ashamed” of his actions and wished he could undo what had happened. Mr. Mathieson emphasized that Redmond did not target the girl specifically but acknowledged his responsibility for the disgraceful incident.

Judge Christopher Cornwall, presiding over the case, highlighted the vulnerability of the victim and the severity of the offense. Redmond, who has a criminal record with 24 previous convictions—none related to sexual offenses—was sentenced to seven years in prison. The judge noted that half of this sentence would be served on license, ensuring supervision upon release. Additionally, a sexual offences prevention order was issued, prohibiting Redmond from having unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 16.

Judge Cornwall emphasized the long-term impact of the assault on the young girl, stating that her trusting nature had been significantly damaged. He remarked that the experience would likely have serious and lasting consequences, including a diminished ability to trust others, even those she knows well. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from predatory behavior and the justice system’s role in holding offenders accountable.