GEORGE DECOURCY, DAD FROM NETHERLEY, ESCAPES JAIL AFTER 1990S SEX CASE IN LIVERPOOL

In May 2017, George Decourcy, a 52-year-old father of three from Calderwood Park, Netherley, was spared imprisonment after an incident involving a 15-year-old girl. Decourcy had returned home intoxicated following a night out and engaged in sexual activity with the minor, who was a virgin at the time. He faced two counts of rape relating to the event, which occurred in the 1990s.

On the day of his trial at Liverpool Crown Court, Decourcy's alleged victim chose not to proceed with the prosecution. Prosecutor John Williams stated, "The victim was relieved that justice had been done, felt a sense of closure, and did not want her attacker to be jailed." Consequently, the prosecutors agreed to drop the rape charges after Decourcy pleaded guilty to an alternative charge of indecent assault.

Judge Norman Wright acknowledged the victim's feelings, explaining, "The victim was aged 15. You went out, no doubt consumed alcohol, and upon returning, had sexual relations with her. She was 15 and a virgin." He highlighted the significant age disparity, describing the case as a "classic example of a victim who feels wronged and has been carrying this internal burden."

The judge emphasized that Decourcy’s admission had helped the victim achieve closure, noting, "Victims are central to the administration of justice."

Considering Decourcy’s previous good character, the time elapsed since the incident, and a pre-sentence report, Judge Wright chose not to imprison him. Instead, he handed down a nine-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, along with 18 months of supervision. Additionally, Decourcy was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for ten years.