Netherton Man “Deviously Preyed On Girl Under 13 For His Own Sordid Gratification.”

Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Friday 2nd May 2025 at 17:35hrs

A 43-year-old man from Netherton has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a girl under the age of 13 and engaging in sexual activity in her presence.

Stephen Aspinwall, of Marina Crescent, Netherton, Liverpool, was convicted at Liverpool Crown Court on Thursday, 1 May 2025.

In addition to his custodial sentence, Aspinwall has been ordered to sign the sex offenders register indefinitely and is subject to an indefinite restraining order against three individuals.

Aspinwall’s arrest in January 2022 followed the brave decision of the young victim to come forward and report his abhorrent actions.

Detective Inspector Graeme Kehoe condemned Aspinwall’s crimes as “despicable,” stating that he “deviously preyed upon his victim for his own sordid gratification.” He further expressed his disappointment that Aspinwall forced the victim to endure the trauma of reliving the abuse during a five-day trial.

“I hope he now spends his time in jail reflecting on the profound impact of his actions,” said Det Insp Kehoe. “We know from speaking to victims of sex offences that the emotional harm can last a lifetime. Aspinwall had no regard for the long-lasting impact his behaviour would have on the victim.”

He paid tribute to the victim and her family for their “humbling” courage in coming forward and cooperating with the investigation. Det Insp Kehoe also commended the investigation team for their determination in bringing a “dangerous individual behind bars.”

Reiterating Merseyside Police’s commitment to safeguarding children, Det Insp Kehoe urged anyone who has experienced sexual abuse, knows of a child being abused, or is aware of individuals involved in storing or sharing child abuse images to report it to the police.

He assured that all such reports are taken extremely seriously and that specially trained officers are available to provide sensitive and compassionate support.

Support services are available for children and young people through the NSPCC (0808 800 5000) and Childline (0800 1111). Adults affected by sexual violence can find support through Merseyside Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Victim Care Merseyside service, as well as local organizations like RASA Merseyside (0151 558 1801) and RASASC Cheshire and Merseyside (01925 221 546 or 0330 363 0063).

Anonymous reporting is also available through the Merseyside Police website.