DARREN HIGHAM FROM BIRCHWOOD SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN LIVERPOOL

In April 2022, a disturbing case emerged involving Darren Higham, a resident of Birchwood, who was convicted of sexually abusing a young girl over a span of four years. The case drew significant attention after Higham, who had previously expressed outrage in a local newspaper about living next door to a known sex offender, was himself found guilty of heinous crimes.

Higham, aged 53 and residing on Chaffinch Close in Birchwood, appeared before Liverpool Crown Court to face charges related to his abuse of a minor. He pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual assault of a child under the age of 13 and inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity. The court proceedings revealed the extent of his misconduct, which began when the victim was just seven years old and continued until she was approximately 11.

The abuse included a range of inappropriate acts, from kissing and touching to forcing the girl to perform sexual acts on him on multiple occasions. The case came to light after a witness observed Higham with the victim and sensed that something was amiss. This individual promptly contacted social services, leading to an investigation.

The young girl later confided in her mother, revealing that she had been subjected to sexual abuse by Higham for a prolonged period. During police interviews, she described how Higham, a self-employed musician, would kiss her, touch her inappropriately, and on one occasion, put his penis on her. She also recounted how he had asked her not to tell anyone about the abuse, warning that it would result in him being sent to prison.

The victim shared that these threats made her feel scared, and she would sometimes pretend to be tired or fall asleep to avoid further abuse. When confronted with the allegations, Higham responded by self-harming, which led to his hospitalization. However, he later cooperated with police, admitting to the abuse. He claimed that 'something triggered' inside him but insisted he had no sexual interest in children.

Prosecutor David Watson presented a statement from the victim’s mother, emphasizing the profound impact the abuse has had on her daughter. The statement detailed how the girl now feels unloved at times and is undergoing counseling and trauma therapy to cope with her experiences.

Higham was sentenced to four years in prison. Additionally, he was issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for ten years and a restraining order that will remain in effect for the same duration, aiming to protect the victim and prevent further harm. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and swift action in protecting vulnerable children from sexual exploitation and abuse.