Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Friday 2nd May 2025 at 17:00hrs
A 25-year-old man who discarded his jumper in a skip while fleeing after committing a series of serious offences against women in Liverpool city centre has been jailed for nine years.
Shaun Hobson, of Ashford, Kent, was sentenced today, Friday 2 May, at Liverpool Crown Court. He was found guilty of intentional strangulation, attempted kidnap, and two counts of common assault with the intent of committing a sexual offence. Upon his release, Hobson will also be placed on the Sex Offender Register for life.
Hobson’s attempt to evade capture was thwarted when eagle-eyed police officers spotted him throwing his jumper into a skip as he ran away. The clothing was recovered, and a subsequent DNA analysis provided a positive match, linking him directly to the crimes.
The disturbing incidents occurred on Sunday, October 6, 2024, in the early hours of the morning. At around 2 am, Hobson approached a woman near Tabley Street and grabbed her by the throat.
Fortunately, a member of the public witnessed the assault and intervened, causing Hobson to flee.
Just ten minutes later, Hobson followed two women into a car park. He then grabbed both victims, assaulting one by grabbing her waist, mouth, and face. The women bravely managed to break free, and Hobson again fled the scene.
Following CCTV inquiries, Merseyside Police identified Hobson and arrested him on Tuesday, October 15, in the Kent area.
The profound impact of Hobson’s actions was highlighted in the Victim Personal Statements read out in court. One victim stated:
“I couldn’t walk anywhere alone for a long time, and when I eventually could, I had to constantly be on the phone to someone… I had always felt so independent and now I was afraid to do anything alone. I was angry – he had no right to take this away from me.” She added, “I am still healing, and it will take time. I am learning to trust again, but it’s hard, and some days it feels like I’m never going to get back to the person I used to be. But I will not let this experience define me, and I will continue working on finding the strength to move forward.”
Another victim shared the lasting fear she experienced: “In the weeks after the attack, I found it was impacting my personal and work life… I have felt unsafe everywhere I have been, in places I should, and previously have felt safe in. I feel he has taken this from me. The whole attack has left me mentally scarred.”
Detective Sergeant David Hughes commented on the sentencing: “This was a shocking series of events which have clearly had a lasting impact on the three women and I sincerely hope that Hobson’s sentencing can bring them some comfort.”
He reassured the public, stating:
“A dangerous predator is now behind bars and by removing him from our streets we have made our communities a safer place. People should be able to visit our city centre without any fear of being a victim of – or even witnessing – such appalling incidents such as these.”
DS Hughes also highlighted the measures in place to ensure the safety of those visiting Liverpool city centre, including proactive policing operations, collaboration with licensed premises and taxi drivers, and bar staff training.
He emphasized the importance of public information, urging anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour to report it.
Merseyside Police also provided information on how to report sexual offences and access support services.
Victims can call 101 to speak to specially trained officers or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. In emergencies, the public is advised to call 999.
Support services are available free of charge and confidentially through the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (Safe Place) and the Independent Sexual Violence Advisor service, even without making a police report.
Rape and Sexual Abuse Support (RASA) Merseyside can be contacted on 0151 558 1801 for those in Liverpool, Sefton, and Wirral, while the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (RASASC) Cheshire and Merseyside can be reached on 01925 221 546 or 0330 363 0063 for residents of St Helens and Knowsley. Online reporting is also available via the Merseyside Police website.
Further support information can be found through the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Victim Care Merseyside service.
Merseyside Police recently launched their Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) campaign, with more information available at http://www.merseyside.police.uk/vawg.
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