CHARD MAN STEPHEN MCQUEEN PLEADS GUILTY TO SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN TAUNTON

In a serious case that has shocked the community of Chard, Stephen Joe McQueen, aged 24, faced charges related to a disturbing sexual misconduct involving a minor. The incident came to light after a 14-year-old schoolgirl reported that she had been subjected to inappropriate sexual contact by McQueen, prompting a police investigation that initially resulted in him receiving a caution. However, the case took a more serious turn when it was revealed that McQueen continued to groom the young girl despite the warning, leading to further legal action.

McQueen, who was not residing at a fixed address at the time, appeared before Taunton Crown Court via video link from Exeter Prison to face the charges. The court heard that he had breached a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) by making contact with the girl, which he was explicitly prohibited from doing. The breach was considered a serious violation of the court's restrictions and added to the gravity of his offenses.

He was formally charged with intentionally touching the girl in a sexual manner, which involved acts of penetration, and he admitted to engaging in sexual activity with a child under the age of 16 through inappropriate touching. These allegations highlight the severity of the misconduct and the breach of trust involved in the case.

During the hearing, it was disclosed that McQueen, who previously lived on Essex Close in Chard, had been living in a car parked on a driveway, indicating a transient lifestyle at the time of the offenses. The court proceedings also revealed that McQueen was to be remanded in custody pending the preparation of pre-sentence reports. He is scheduled to appear before a judge in Taunton on October 14 for sentencing.

The case has garnered significant attention in the local community, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding minors and the legal system’s role in addressing such serious offenses. The court's decision to remand McQueen reflects the gravity of his actions and the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable individuals from sexual exploitation.