A twisted paedophile was brought to justice after a campaign of rape against a young child.
Christopher McConnell dragged out his victim's ordeal by denying his guilt, resulting in an eight-day trial at Liverpool Crown Court. Jurors heard how McConnell would hold a pillow over his victim's face when they became upset and used threats to keep them quiet.
However the 36-year-old, from Warrington but most recently of Prestbury Drive, Stockport, was found guilty of four counts of child rape and hauled back to court today for sentence. The case against McConnell began in September 2021 when Cheshire Constabulary received reports that he had raped and assaulted a young child.
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The source reported that the offences took place over a four-year period and involved a child under the age of 13. Officers from Cheshire Constabulary built up a file of evidence against McConnell and he was charged.
McConnell was today jailed for 18 years.
Following the verdict, Detective Constable Irene Cadman, who led the investigation said: “McConnell’s conviction is testament to the courage and bravery shown by the victim and their family throughout this investigation. McConnell is a violent and manipulative bully, who subjected his victim to a prolonged period of sexual abuse and violence.
“He repeatedly threatened his victim and placed a pillow over their face if they became upset while he was raping them. Even when faced with all the evidence against him, he refused to admit his guilt. Instead, he chose to make the victim’s family sit through the hearing and listen to the horrific offences that he committed.
“Thankfully, as a result of the statements provided by the victim, and the evidence we gathered the jury have seen through his lies and he is now being held accountable for his actions.”
Detective Inspector Andrew Wallace, of the Northern Public Protection Team, added: “This has been a complex investigation and I would like to commend DC Cadman for her dedication and commitment throughout the case. No-one should have to experience what this victim has been through and if anything can be achieved from this case, I hope that it encourages other victims to come forward.
"Cheshire Constabulary takes any allegation of sexual offences extremely seriously, and any allegation will be thoroughly investigated, with the wishes and needs of the victim as our main priority.”
To report any sexual offence, call Cheshire Constabulary on 101 or click here. Information can also be given anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.
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