Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Monday 17th March 2025, at 15:50hrs
A 46-year-old man from Tuebrook has been sentenced to five years in prison after being convicted of sexually assaulting a girl under the age of 13.
John Thompson, of Pennsylvania Road, was found guilty of three counts of sexual assault against a child under 13 and one count of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child.
Thompson was arrested in March 2022 after the victim bravely came forward to report the abuse.
The case was investigated by Merseyside Police, leading to his conviction.
Detective Inspector Daniel McWhinnie condemned Thompson’s actions, stating,
“Thompson preyed upon his victim for his own sordid gratification, and I hope he now spends his time in jail reflecting on the impact of his actions. His offending was quite simply despicable.”
Det Insp McWhinnie emphasized the long-lasting emotional harm caused by such crimes, saying,
“We know from speaking to victims of sex offences that the emotional harm can last a lifetime. Thompson had no regard for the long-lasting impact his behaviour would have on the victim.”
He praised the victim and her family for their courage in coming forward and cooperating with the investigation, acknowledging the “humbling” nature of their bravery.
He also thanked the investigating team for their dedication to bringing Thompson to justice.
“Merseyside Police is completely committed to protecting children from sexual abuse and stopping people like Thompson before they can commit such harm,” Det Insp McWhinnie stated.
He highlighted the work of the Protecting Vulnerable People Unit in preventing sexual offences and supporting victims.
The police urge anyone who has experienced sexual abuse, or who knows of a child being abused or an adult involved in sharing abuse images, to come forward.
Reports are taken “extremely seriously” and are handled by specially trained officers.
For children or young people suffering abuse, the following organizations offer support:
* NSPCC: 0808 800 5000 or help@nspcc.org.uk
* Childline: 0800 1111
For anyone affected by sexual violence, Merseyside Police encourages individuals to seek help and report incidents. Rape, sexual assault, and other sexual offences can be reported anonymously at:
Support is also available through the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Victim Care Merseyside service, delivered by Rape and Sexual Abuse Support (RASA) Merseyside (0151 558 1801) for Liverpool, Sefton, and Wirral, and Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (RASASC) Cheshire and Merseyside (01925 221 546 or 0330 363 0063) for St Helens and Knowsley.
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