STEPHEN FINNIGAN SENTENCED TO 29 YEARS IN LIVERPOOL FOR HISTORIC SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST CHILDREN
A man from Liverpool, specifically from the Litherland area, has been handed a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offences committed against five young children.Stephen Finnigan, aged 63 and residing on Longfield Road, was sentenced to a total of 29 years and six months behind bars.
This sentencing followed a comprehensive two-week trial at Liverpool Crown Court, where the court heard detailed accounts of his crimes.
Finnigan was found guilty of 29 separate counts, which included indecent assault, gross indecency, and other related sexual offences.
These crimes were not recent but were instead historical, dating back to the last century, and involved breaches of trust given Finnigan’s role as an instructor within the army cadets.
The investigation into these offences was initiated after Merseyside Police received a report in 2014, detailing sexual misconduct against a child.
Over the years, additional victims came forward, which eventually led to formal charges being brought against Finnigan in 2022.
The police emphasized that the offences spanned several years and involved a position of authority that Finnigan exploited to commit these heinous acts.
The investigation was thorough, and the police received full cooperation from the army cadets organization, which played a crucial role in the process.
A spokesperson for the army cadets stated that the organization had cooperated fully with Merseyside Police throughout the investigation.
They also highlighted that the organization maintains strict safeguarding measures, including security screening, disclosure checks, and regular safeguarding training, to protect all cadets and volunteers.
Detective Constable Claire McDonald expressed her condemnation of Finnigan’s actions, describing his behavior as utterly appalling and predatory.
She praised the victims for their courage and bravery in coming forward to report the offences, despite the trauma involved in reliving their experiences during the trial.
McDonald emphasized that Finnigan’s denial of the charges meant that the victims had to endure a difficult trial process, which was necessary to seek justice.
She further explained that the impact of such crimes is profound and long-lasting for victims.
The lengthy sentence was intended to serve as a message that the police and justice system are committed to protecting children and holding offenders accountable, regardless of when the crimes occurred.
McDonald urged anyone who has experienced sexual abuse or who knows of a child being abused to come forward and report it to the police.
She assured the public that Merseyside Police takes all reports seriously and that specially trained officers are available to handle such cases with sensitivity and compassion.
In conclusion, the case underscores the importance of vigilance and the ongoing commitment of law enforcement and safeguarding organizations to protect vulnerable children from exploitation and abuse.
The community is reminded that justice can be pursued regardless of the passage of time, and that speaking out is crucial in preventing further harm.
