GARY SPENCER FROM RUNCORN SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC SEXUAL ABUSE IN LIVERPOOL

In July 2019, a deeply disturbing case unfolded involving Gary Spencer, a man from Runcorn, who was convicted of a series of heinous sexual offenses against a young girl. The court heard that Spencer, whose residence is on Lapwing Grove in Runcorn, engaged in a predatory campaign of abuse that spanned over a year, during which he repeatedly assaulted the girl, causing her profound psychological and physical trauma.

The victim, whose identity remains protected, was subjected to multiple acts of rape and sexual assault by Spencer. The severity of his crimes was compounded by the fact that he transmitted a sexually transmitted infection to her, a detail that the court recognized as an aggravating factor during sentencing. The attacks took place in the south Liverpool area several years prior, but the full extent of the abuse only came to light when the girl, demonstrating remarkable courage, confided in her family in 2017 about her ordeal.

Following her disclosure, authorities launched an investigation that ultimately led to Spencer’s arrest and subsequent conviction on five counts related to rape and sexual assault. The court proceedings revealed the disturbing pattern of his predatory behavior, which escalated in seriousness over time. The court was also informed of the emotional and psychological toll inflicted upon the young victim, who has since been left with lasting scars.

Today, Spencer was sentenced to 12 years in prison. The judge, Gary Woodhall, emphasized the gravity of his crimes, especially noting the transmission of a sexual infection as an aggravating factor. Additionally, Spencer was ordered to serve an extra year on license following his release, sign the Sex Offenders Register for life, and adhere to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for ten years.

The victim’s family expressed their anguish and disappointment, condemning Spencer for having 'stolen the young girl’s childhood.' The victim’s father spoke openly about the devastating impact of the abuse, stating, “Her life now is so traumatic, she’s having so much trouble in school. It’s wrecked the whole family, it’s devastating.” He further revealed that his daughter is now on medication, including anti-depressants, highlighting the profound emotional scars left by Spencer’s actions.

He added, “I just can’t understand how he could do something like that to a girl.” The father also described how his daughter tries to put on a brave face, saying, “She puts on a front but you can just see what’s going on.” The court’s decision aims to provide some measure of justice and closure, but the family’s pain remains deeply felt. The judge’s order for lifelong registration as a sex offender and a decade-long Sexual Harm Prevention Order underscores the seriousness with which the court views Spencer’s crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.