A man set fire to his girlfriend's house while she was inside with her daughter.
Stephen Buckley started a fire downstairs in the property while his girlfriend and her teenage daughter were unaware upstairs. The victims only became aware of the blaze when they smelled smoke coming from downstairs.
The 36-year-old started the fire near to a gas and electrical mains box and then ran from the scene on Tuesday, December 20, last year. Thankfully the mum and daughter managed to get out of the house uninjured.
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Buckley, of Lord Street, Southport, pleaded guilty to arson and was jailed at Liverpool Crown Court on Tuesday , May 2 for four years and nine months.
Detective Chief Inspector Allison Woods said: "It is pleasing to see that Buckley has been given a custodial sentence to reflect the seriousness of his actions. To deliberately start a fire inside a house, knowing that there are people inside, is utterly appalling and it’s only down to good fortune that the two occupants were unharmed.
"Buckley started a fire in close proximity to a gas and electrical mains box, so it was incredibly reckless and dangerous. He not only endangered the lives of the two people inside the house, but also neighbouring properties. Domestic abuse can come in many forms, and we have dedicated officers who are specially trained to support victims throughout an investigation. We work closely with partners, charities and other organisations to break the silence and help those in need.
"We know that many people are aware offences are being committed in their neighbourhood or against people they know, but remain silent. I want to encourage those people to do the right thing and come forward so we can take action and help those who need it and those who may not be able to help themselves.
"If you are suffering and can find the courage to come forward, or know someone who may be a victim, please reach out to the police, local authority or support agencies and we will take action. Merseyside Police is committed to working together with communities and partner agencies to tackle all violence against women and girls (VAWG) in Merseyside."
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