STEPHEN BLOOD FROM HALIFAX AND OVDEN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING TEENAGER

In August 2007, a man from Halifax, identified as Stephen Michael Blood, was sentenced to three years and four months in prison after being found guilty of engaging in sexual activities with a minor. Blood, aged 46 and residing in Moorside Gardens, Ovenden, was convicted of three counts related to sexual misconduct with a child, a serious offense that has led to his placement on the sex offender register for life. Additionally, he has been prohibited from working with children in any capacity.

The court proceedings revealed that Blood developed a relationship with a 15-year-old schoolgirl beginning in October. Prosecutor Heather Gilmore explained that Blood had initially met the girl and her mother through a mutual acquaintance. During this period, Blood was permitted to spend time with the teenager in her bedroom and was allowed to stay overnight on the sofa, raising concerns about the boundaries of their relationship.

Mrs. Gilmore detailed an incident where the girl, while staying at Blood’s residence with his girlfriend, woke up to find Blood on top of her. Following this incident, the two began exchanging text messages, and by December, they had engaged in sexual activity. When confronted about the allegations, Blood denied having sex with the girl but acknowledged that he was aware she was only 15 years old.

The girl confided in her sister that she was pregnant and that Blood was the father. This revelation prompted her sister to contact the police authorities. It was established that the couple had sexual encounters approximately eight or nine times, with Blood admitting that he only occasionally used contraception.

The girl, whose identity is protected by law, has since given birth to the child. During the trial, Malcolm Nowell, representing Blood, stated that his client was not someone who targeted or groomed the girl for sexual favors. He expressed remorse for his actions and emphasized that Blood recognized the impact of his conduct.

Mr. Nowell also pointed out that the girl turned 16 within two weeks of Blood’s arrest and suggested that if the police had not intervened, Blood would have continued to support her through her pregnancy, believing their relationship to be sincere.

Judge Christopher Prince addressed Blood directly, condemning his belief that he could maintain a relationship with a 15-year-old as “entirely corrupt.” The court’s decision underscores the severity of such offenses and the importance of protecting minors from exploitation and abuse.