STEPHEN RUTHERFORD OF MUSSELBURGH JAILED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN WARRINGTON

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community, Stephen Rutherford, a 49-year-old resident of Kilwinning Terrace in Musselburgh, has been sentenced to two years in prison after admitting to the abuse of a young girl over three decades ago. The charges stem from incidents that reportedly took place in the girl’s own home during the 1970s, a revelation that has reopened painful memories for the victim and raised concerns about safeguarding in the area.

Rutherford appeared before Warrington Crown Court to face the charges, which included two counts of indecency against a child. The allegations came to light only last year, prompting a thorough investigation that culminated in Rutherford’s admission of guilt. Prosecutor Meirion Lewis Jones detailed that the abuse occurred during two separate periods in the girl’s childhood: the first when she was between four and six years old, and the second when she was aged between nine and twelve.

During the court proceedings, Rutherford’s defense attorney, Michael Scholes, argued that his client was not a paedophile and suggested that the offences were committed under “exceptional circumstances.” Despite this, the presiding judge, Michael Farmer QC, did not accept the defense’s characterization. In delivering the sentence, Judge Farmer condemned Rutherford’s actions as a “wicked attack” on a vulnerable child.

Judge Farmer emphasized the importance of protecting children from harm and underscored the need for the courts to serve as a deterrent to those contemplating such heinous acts. His words were clear: “Children need to be protected and people who think of abusing them like you did must be deterred by the courts. You should remain in jail for a very long time.” The sentence reflects the gravity of the offences and the court’s stance on safeguarding the innocence and well-being of children in the community.