Stephen Aspinwall, 43, of Marina Crescent in Netherton, Liverpool, has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison after being convicted of serious child sex offences.
On 1 May 2025, Liverpool Crown Court found Aspinwall guilty of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child and of sexually assaulting a girl under the age of 13. The crimes came to light when the victim bravely reported the abuse in January 2022.
In addition to his prison term, Aspinwall has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely and issued with an indefinite restraining order against three individuals.
Detective Inspector Graeme Kehoe of Merseyside Police described Aspinwall’s actions as “despicable,” saying:
“He deviously preyed upon his victim for his own sordid gratification. He showed no regard for the lasting trauma his actions would cause.”
DI Kehoe also noted that Aspinwall forced the victim to endure a five-day trial, rather than admitting guilt:
“He could have spared her the pain of reliving the abuse, but he chose not to.”
He praised the courage of the victim and her family and commended the investigating officers:
“Their determination has ensured a dangerous individual is now behind bars.”
Merseyside Police reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children and preventing sexual abuse.
“Our Protecting Vulnerable People Unit works tirelessly to support victims and bring offenders to justice,” Kehoe added.
Police urge anyone who has experienced or is aware of sexual abuse to come forward. Specially trained officers are available to provide support with compassion and care.
