WILLIAM CORCORAN FROM BLURTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF SCHOOLGIRL IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Blurton, William Corcoran, aged 56, has been sentenced to prison following his conviction for sexually abusing a young schoolgirl. The heinous acts took place in Stoke-on-Trent, where Corcoran’s actions have left a lasting impact on his victim and raised serious concerns about safeguarding and child protection.

Corcoran, a resident of Consett Road in Blurton, was found guilty after a trial held in March. The court heard that he engaged in two separate incidents of sexual misconduct involving the young girl. The first incident involved Corcoran instructing the child to look at his private parts and to lie on top of him. During this encounter, he pulled her onto his lap and was observed to be rubbing himself against her body, an act that caused significant distress and trauma to the victim.

The second incident was equally disturbing. Corcoran told the girl to perform a sex act on him, further violating her innocence and trust. Prosecutor Denise Fitzpatrick detailed the severity of the offenses, emphasizing that the first incident included Corcoran pulling the girl onto his lap and rubbing himself against her, while also suggesting she could practice such acts when she had a boyfriend. These actions have had a profound psychological impact on the victim, who now struggles with confidence issues, difficulty forming close relationships, and ongoing mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.

Despite denying the allegations initially, Corcoran was convicted of indecent assault and indecency with a child. The court, presided over by Recorder Stephen Thomas, sentenced him to 33 months in prison. Additionally, Corcoran was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that will remain in effect for five years, and he was placed on the sex offenders’ register for life, reflecting the seriousness of his crimes and the need for ongoing monitoring.

During the sentencing, Recorder Thomas acknowledged the planning involved in the second offense, which included the penetration of the girl’s mouth. The judge expressed his belief that the abuse continues to haunt the victim, stating, “I am sure the abuse you inflicted still plays on the mind of your victim.” The case underscores the importance of vigilance and protective measures for vulnerable children in the community, and it serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of sexual abuse on young lives.