STEVEN TAYLOR FROM LEEK SENTENCED FOR RAPE OF SCHOOLGIRL IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Leek and the surrounding areas, 18-year-old Steven Taylor has been convicted and sentenced for the heinous crime of raping a young schoolgirl. The incident took place in April of 2019, and the repercussions have been severe, both legally and socially.

According to court reports, Taylor forcibly assaulted the girl, who was under the age of 13 at the time. The assault was so severe that the victim contracted a sexually transmitted infection, specifically genital herpes, which was diagnosed by her doctor after she reported symptoms of itching and pain in her private areas. The girl’s condition prompted immediate medical attention, and her discomfort was compounded by emotional distress, as she became withdrawn and tearful during her examination.

Medical professionals confirmed the presence of genital herpes, a diagnosis that was particularly alarming given the girl’s young age. During her consultation, she disclosed to the doctor that she had been touched inappropriately, and she specifically identified Taylor as the person responsible. The police were contacted shortly thereafter, and the girl was interviewed on the same day. She recounted that the assault had occurred approximately five days prior to her medical examination, describing how Taylor had pinned her down and raped her.

Prosecutor Nick Tatlow presented the case at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, emphasizing the gravity of the offense. He detailed that Taylor’s actions had not only caused physical harm but also inflicted significant emotional trauma on the young victim. The court heard that Taylor, who resides on Westminster Road in Leek, pleaded guilty to the charge of raping a child under 13.

In sentencing, Judge David Fletcher condemned Taylor’s actions as extremely serious, highlighting the violation of a vulnerable young girl and the subsequent health consequences she faced. Taylor was sentenced to five years in a young offender institution. Additionally, he was ordered to be subject to a sexual harm prevention order for ten years and was placed on the sex offenders’ register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions.

This case underscores the devastating impact of such crimes on young victims and the importance of swift legal action to protect the community and prevent future offenses. The community of Leek and the wider Stoke-on-Trent area will undoubtedly be affected by the details of this case, which serve as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding children from harm.