MARK TAYLOR FROM WEST KIRBY SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES INVOLVING TEENAGE GIRLS
In October 2015, a man from West Kirby named Mark Taylor was sentenced to 27 months in prison after admitting to a series of serious sexual offences involving three teenage girls.The case was heard at Liverpool Crown Court, where it was revealed that Taylor, aged 28 at the time, had engaged in grooming and inappropriate conduct targeting the young victims for his own sexual gratification.
Prosecutor Nick Walker detailed how Taylor’s actions had a profound and disturbing impact on the girls, all of whom were just 14 years old when the offences occurred.
The court heard that Taylor’s misconduct included not only sending explicit text messages but also offering cigarettes and vodka to the minors.
One of the victims was even intoxicated on cannabis after Taylor bought her £160 worth of the drug, which led to a police investigation once her mother noticed her altered state upon returning home.
According to the evidence presented, Taylor had systematically groomed one of the girls by repeatedly messaging her with flirtatious comments such as calling her “gorgeous” and “sexy.” She had visited his flat for cigarettes but eventually told him to leave her alone, describing him as “a paedo.” Another victim was asked for cigarettes and vodka by Taylor, who also attempted to kiss her.
When she refused, he hugged her and inappropriately touched her bottom over her clothing.
The third girl was subjected to sexually explicit texts from Taylor, who also offered to buy her a litre of vodka if she met him, expressing his attraction by saying, “I think you are proper fit.” One impact statement from a victim revealed her current fears of West Kirby, as she is now afraid to go into the town in case she encounters Taylor.
She also expressed her terror of using public transport and being in the dark, highlighting the lasting emotional scars caused by his actions.
Taylor pleaded guilty to engaging in sexual activity with one girl and inciting the other two to participate in sexual acts.
The offences took place over a period from March 1 to September 20 of the previous year.
The court noted Taylor’s prior convictions for cannabis possession, which added to the severity of his sentencing.
Judge Denis Watson, QC, sentenced Taylor to 27 months in prison, ordered him to sign the Sex Offenders Register for ten years, and imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for the same duration, aiming to protect the community from further harm.
