PETER WALSH JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN SILVERDALE

In a recent court ruling, Peter Walsh, a resident of Silverdale, was sentenced to 18 months in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a teenage girl. The incident, which took place in 2009, had only come to light in February of this year when the victim reported the assault to authorities. Walsh, aged 44 at the time of sentencing, had pleaded guilty to the charge of assault by penetration during proceedings at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court in October 2009.

During the court hearing, it was revealed that Walsh had been experiencing significant emotional distress following the death of his wife in 2008. This period of depression appeared to have contributed to his actions, as Walsh himself admitted to police that he was feeling depressed and consuming large quantities of alcohol at the time of the offence. Despite having no prior criminal record, Walsh’s mental state and circumstances surrounding the incident were considered during sentencing.

Nicola Bell, representing Walsh, argued that the incident prompted her client to reflect deeply on his life and prompted him to seek counseling. She emphasized that Walsh’s character had been significantly damaged by the event and that he would need to work hard to rebuild his life after serving his sentence. The court was also informed that Walsh is now registered as a sex offender and will be subject to restrictions that prevent him from engaging in activities involving children.

Judge Paul Glenn underscored the severity of the offence, stating that only an immediate custodial sentence was appropriate given the circumstances. He expressed his concern over the impact on the victim, describing her as being shocked, devastated, and feeling ill after the assault. The judge also addressed Walsh’s intoxication, stating that he did not accept Walsh’s claim of not recalling the incident, implying that Walsh’s intoxication did not absolve him of responsibility.

Walsh is expected to serve up to half of his 18-month sentence before being eligible for release. His name will remain on the sex offenders’ register, and he will face ongoing restrictions designed to protect the community, especially minors, from potential harm.