KEVAN O’CONNOR SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES IN OLD SWAN, LIVERPOOL
In March 2021, Kevan O’Connor, a resident of Rawlinson Road in Old Swan, was formally sentenced for a series of heinous sexual offences committed against four young victims spanning from the 1950s through the 1970s.The case, heard at Liverpool Crown Court, revealed the disturbing extent of O’Connor’s abuse and the profound psychological impact it had on his victims.
During the proceedings, it was disclosed that one victim, who endured a serious sexual assault at the hands of O’Connor, suffered such severe emotional trauma that he attempted to take his own life.
The court heard that this victim experienced lasting psychological harm, which was directly attributed to the defendant’s actions.
The victims, who watched from the courtroom gallery, included individuals who recounted how the abuse affected their entire lives.
One victim, who was subjected to indecent assault, described how the trauma impacted her daily routines.
She revealed that she would leave her swimming costume on while in the bath, pretending she was at the swimming baths, as a way to cope with her feelings.
In her statement, she expressed her pain, stating, “I was hurt and I couldn’t tell my mum and dad.” Another victim shared that the abuse had a lasting effect on her mental health, altering her psyche and affecting every aspect of her life.
She explained that she grew distrustful of others and never felt safe, illustrating the deep scars left by O’Connor’s actions.
Further disturbing details emerged during the trial, including allegations that O’Connor forced one victim to perform sexual acts on him before committing a more serious sexual offence.
The victim described feeling pushed into the mattress and being forced upon, highlighting the physical and emotional trauma inflicted.
The court also heard that this victim struggled with social integration and had made an attempt on his own life, underscoring the severe psychological damage caused.
O’Connor was convicted on multiple counts, including five charges of indecent assault on a child under 13, eight counts of indecent assault on a child under 14, and one count of a serious sexual offence, which, if committed today, would be classified as rape of a child.
The trial revealed that O’Connor repeatedly told one victim that if she disclosed the abuse, her parents “wouldn’t love her,” effectively grooming her to remain silent.
The court noted that he also provided her with money in an attempt to buy her silence.
Judge David Watson, QC, delivered the sentence, emphasizing the profound harm caused by O’Connor.
He stated that the defendant had groomed his victims and exploited their vulnerabilities.
The judge highlighted the severe psychological harm suffered by one victim, who had attempted suicide and was described as vulnerable.
O’Connor was sentenced to 17 years in prison, with an extended license period of one year.
Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the public from further harm.
