MICHAEL WARING FROM ASHTON, PRESTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON CHILD IN PRESTON

In a case that has shocked the local community, Michael Waring, a resident of Tomlinson Road in Ashton, Preston, was sentenced to seven years in prison for serious sexual offenses committed against a young girl. The crimes took place over a prolonged period, spanning from November 2011 to September 2012, and involved the abuse of a five-year-old girl who, for legal reasons, cannot be identified publicly.

Waring, aged 59 at the time of sentencing, faced multiple charges related to his misconduct. He denied the allegations throughout the trial but was ultimately convicted on July 4 at Preston Crown Court. The court found him guilty of two counts of sexually assaulting the young girl, a conviction that underscores the severity of his actions.

Despite the conviction, Waring was acquitted of two other charges that accused him of causing or inciting a child into sexual activity. The jury's decision reflects the evidence presented during the trial, which was sufficient to establish his guilt on the two counts of sexual assault but not on the other charges.

Following his sentencing, Waring was ordered to sign the sex offenders register indefinitely, a measure designed to monitor his activities and prevent further offenses. Additionally, he is prohibited from working with children under the age of 16, a restriction aimed at safeguarding vulnerable minors from potential harm.

Detective Chief Inspector Jo Edwards of Preston Police commented on the case, emphasizing the significance of the conviction. She stated, “His offending was over a significant period within this child’s short lifetime and his conviction will has enabled the courts to impose a number of conditions upon him and allow the relevant professionals to robustly monitor his movements in order to minimise the risk of him offending again. This case demonstrates our continued commitment to bring dangerous offenders to justice.”

The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect children and ensure that offenders are held accountable for their actions, especially in cases involving prolonged abuse within the community of Preston.