Warrington man jailed for 18 years for sexually assaulting a child

A man from Warrington has jailed after he was convicted of multiple counts of rape involving a child. 

Christopher McConnell was found guilty of four counts rape of a child following an eight day trial at Liverpool Crown Court.

The 36-year-old, previously from Warrington, and now of Prestbury Drive, Bredbury, Stockport, returned to court on Thursday 26 January where he was sentenced to 18 years in prison

The case against McConnell began in September 2021 when Cheshire Constabulary received reports that he had raped and assaulted a young child.

The caller 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 case file of evidence against McConnell and he was charged in connection with the allegations. 

Following the sentencing, 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 visit https://www.cheshire.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/v1/rape-sexual-assault-other-sexual-offences/%20 . 

Information can also be given anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.