LIAM COTTERILL FROM STOKE-ON-TRENT SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL GROOMING AND COERCIVE CONTROL

A resident of Stoke-on-Trent, Liam Cotterill, has been sentenced to prison for a series of disturbing crimes involving the sexual grooming of a 17-year-old girl over an extended period. The conviction was handed down on Monday, 19 August, at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, where the court found him guilty of engaging in sexual contact with a minor and employing coercive and controlling behaviors to manipulate his victim.

According to court records, Liam Cotterill, aged 30, systematically exploited the girl, who was in her early teenage years when the abuse began. The grooming process spanned more than three years, with the initial sexual acts taking place in 2021. Throughout this period, Cotterill used manipulative tactics to dominate and control the victim, restricting her freedom of movement and subjecting her to a series of coercive measures.

One of the most troubling aspects of the case was Cotterill’s use of substances. He forced the girl to accompany him on a nationwide journey, during which he administered alcohol and drugs to her before subjecting her to assault. Despite having received a warning letter, he continued to harass and intimidate her on numerous occasions, demonstrating a pattern of persistent abuse and control.

During the court proceedings, Liam Cotterill initially denied all charges, attempting to dismiss the allegations. However, as the case progressed, he ultimately confessed to the crimes, acknowledging his misconduct in front of the court.

In addition to his prison sentence, Cotterill was subjected to a sex offender notification requirement, which mandates regular reporting to Staffordshire Police after his release. This measure is designed to monitor his activities and prevent further harm.

Liz Turley, the officer leading the investigation, described the case as complex and emotionally taxing for the child protection team. She praised the resilience of the victim, whose strength throughout the ordeal was remarkable. Turley expressed hope that the legal outcome would help her begin to rebuild her life, with support from various organizations and partners involved in her recovery.

Commenting on the case, Turley stated, “Liam Cotterill is a cunning and domineering person, and I am glad that he has received a substantial prison term for his criminal actions, which he planned and executed over several years.” She emphasized the importance of community trust and reassurance, adding, “I trust that this result provides comfort to our communities, assuring them that if they have experienced a sexual offence, coercive control, or grooming, they will be trusted and aided, and we will make every effort to bring these offenders to justice and safeguard them.”