LIAM HODGSON AND SHOCKING SEXUAL ASSAULT IN BARNSLEY
A convicted sex offender from Barnsley has been sentenced to prison for a brutal and predatory assault on a 14-year-old girl.Liam Hodgson, aged 31 and residing on Abbots Road in the Lundwood area of Barnsley, was found guilty of drugging and sexually assaulting a young girl who was particularly vulnerable due to her age and circumstances.
The incident unfolded in Barnsley town centre during the late hours of July 15 and the early hours of July 16.
According to court testimony, Hodgson approached the teenage girl at around midnight while she was wandering alone through the town centre.
She was reportedly seen asking for a cigarette, and Hodgson responded by offering her one.
What the victim did not realize was that the cigarette had been deliberately spiked with a synthetic cannabinoid known as spice, a potent cannabis-like drug that can induce hallucinations and disorientation.
Prosecutor Jonathan Sharp detailed that Hodgson’s actions had been captured on CCTV footage.
The footage shows Hodgson cycling after the girl, eventually catching up with her, and then placing his arm around her as they moved out of the camera’s view.
Witnesses observed her wobbling and appearing intoxicated, likely as a result of the drug-laced cigarette.
The court heard that soon after, Hodgson led the girl away from public view where he then sexually assaulted her anally.
The assault took place while she was under the influence of the drug, rendering her unable to give informed consent, which significantly contributed to the severity of the case.
The victim was later found bruised near Barnsley Town Hall, with her clothing torn and her phone and bag missing.
After reporting the assault to police, evidence was collected including semen and traces of synthetic cannabinoids in her system.
The girl, deeply distressed by the ordeal, stated that the event left her feeling scared and upset, and since then, she has been unable to visit the town centre alone.
Hodgson, who had amassed a record of 23 previous convictions primarily for theft and robbery—none of which involved sexual offences—pleaded guilty to the charge of anal rape of the young girl.
Defense lawyer Richard Davies acknowledged Hodgson’s difficulties with drug addiction and homelessness, highlighting that he has expressed remorse and that he recognizes the need for behavioral change during his time in prison.
Judge Peter Kelson QC addressed Hodgson directly during sentencing, emphasizing the gravity of the crime.
He pointed out that Hodgson chose to target a vulnerable young girl in a public space at night, fully aware that she was alone and troubled.
The judge condemned Hodgson for taking advantage of her during a time when she was incapable of consent and for his complete disregard for her well-being.
The court was told Hodgson’s actions involved sexual penetration, removal of her clothing, and leaving her incapacitated on the street.
In his sentence, Judge Kelson imposed an eight-year custodial term and ordered Hodgson to be subjected to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order to prevent further offenses and protect others from his predatory behavior.
