LIAM TEMPLE FROM CASTLEFIELDS, RUNCORN, JAILED FOR SEX OFFENCE IN CHESTER

In a case that has shocked the local community of Castlefields in Runcorn, Liam Temple, a long-standing councillor, was sentenced to six months in prison at Chester Crown Court on Friday. The conviction stems from a disturbing incident where Temple, aged 58 and a widow from Kingshead Close, was found guilty of offering money to a 12-year-old girl in exchange for sexual contact.

Temple's fall from grace is particularly notable given his extensive history of public service. He served as a councillor in Runcorn for over two decades and held the position of Mayor a decade ago. Despite his resignation from the council following the conviction, he continues to deny any wrongdoing. The court's verdict was delivered after a trial held last month, during which evidence was presented that led to his conviction.

Judge Roger Dutton addressed Temple directly during the sentencing, condemning his actions as a 'squalid offer of money to a young girl for groping for your own gratification.' The judge emphasized the gravity of the offense, especially considering Temple's reputation as a man with a lifetime of service behind him. He stated, 'You are now thoroughly publicly disgraced and that is in itself substantial punishment.'

Despite arguments from the defence highlighting Temple's poor health—he suffers from high blood pressure, mobility issues, heart disease, and a lung condition—and his previous contributions to public service, the judge decided on an immediate custodial sentence. The defence had requested that the sentence be suspended, citing his health and service record, but this was rejected in light of the seriousness of the crime.

Witnesses in the courtroom, including Temple's girlfriend, daughter, and two supporters, reacted with gasps when the judge announced the immediate imprisonment. Judge Dutton explained that, given Temple's age and health, the situation was undoubtedly difficult for him to face, but he stressed the importance of setting a proper example for the community. 'You are a man with not just public service but public responsibility to set a proper example to the people in your community, who looked up to you and respected you,' the judge remarked. He further added that the young girl’s father had no expectation that his daughter would be subjected to such a heinous act.

During the hearing, defence counsel Simon Berkson highlighted Temple's positive references related to his charitable work and contributions to local governance. He acknowledged the harshness of the conviction and the impact it would have on Temple's life, noting that his interactions with others had changed dramatically since the incident. 'His everyday dealings with people are different. They aren’t rushing to shake his hand or ask him a question any more,' Berkson said.

In court, Temple appeared subdued, dressed in a black suit and dark blue tie, visibly distressed and winced as he stood for the judge’s decision. His previous image as a prominent local politician was contrasted sharply with his current situation. The court described him as a 'prominent local politician,' but on the day of sentencing, he was led away to the cells after the proceedings.

Following his conviction, Temple’s image and name have been removed from official posters in Halton Council’s municipal building, replaced by a silhouette and a 'vacant' sticker, symbolizing the community’s disapproval and the loss of his public standing.