STEVE MCCREADY FROM SMALLTHORNE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING TEENAGE GIRL IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

In January 2018, Steven McCready, a 34-year-old man residing in Smallthorne, was convicted and subsequently sentenced for engaging in a series of disturbing sexual activities with a teenage girl. The case, which was heard at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, revealed a pattern of predatory behavior that left a lasting impact on the victim.

According to court proceedings, McCready targeted a girl who was only 14 years old at the time. His actions included kissing and touching her inappropriately, making it clear that he desired to engage in full sexual intercourse. The situation escalated as he used various tactics to manipulate her, including purchasing alcohol to lower her inhibitions and make her more compliant. He also bought her gifts such as perfume and jewelry, further attempting to persuade her to comply with his demands.

Prosecutor Adam Watkins detailed the severity of McCready’s misconduct, stating, “The severity of the sexual activity increased over time. She, at his request, performed a sex act on him. He continued to pester her for full sexual intercourse. They also exchanged, at his request, naked images of each other.” The court was informed that the victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was deeply affected by the ordeal. In her victim statement, she expressed how the experience had damaged her confidence and contributed to her ongoing struggles with depression.

McCready’s actions did not stop at inappropriate touching and coercion. Evidence presented in court showed that he repeatedly pressured the young girl for full penetrative sex, despite her clear reluctance. On one occasion, she performed oral sex on him to appease his persistent demands, but she did not consent to full intercourse. The court also heard that the pair exchanged naked images, further illustrating the manipulative nature of McCready’s conduct.

The defendant pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual activity with a child and admitted to a charge of sexual communication with a child. However, he later vacated the latter plea. The judge, Recorder Julian Taylor, sentenced McCready to four years in prison. Additionally, he imposed a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a 10-year restraining order to prevent any contact with the victim or others in similar circumstances. McCready was also placed on the sex offenders’ register for life, marking a significant legal consequence for his actions.

During the sentencing, the judge emphasized the gravity of the offenses, noting, “You were considerably older than the complainant. You wanted to have full penetrative sexual activity with her. But she did not want that and she consented to performing oral sex on you on one occasion to fob you off. These are serious offences. Alcohol was used and no doubt that did facilitate the behaviour.” The case highlights the dangers of predatory behavior and the importance of protecting vulnerable minors from exploitation in communities like Smallthorne and beyond.