STEPHEN STOWELL OF NORTHWICH SENTENCED TO 13 YEARS FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES
In July 2008, Northwich-based sex offender Stephen Michael Stowell was sentenced to 13 years in prison for sexually abusing children.The 43-year-old, of Meadow Grove, Northwich, and formerly of Penrith, had targeted young victims over an eight-year span from 1991 to 1999.
Stowell pleaded guilty to eight counts of sexual offences involving children aged between six and 13, including buggery, indecent assault, and gross indecency.
The convictions were finalized at Chester Crown Court last week.
Detective Constable Brendan Crilley of the Western Area Public Protection Unit commended the bravery of the victims for coming forward and aiding the prosecution.
He stated, “Stowell committed a disturbing sequence of offences over a prolonged period during the 1990s.
The innocence of the children involved was betrayed in this case, and the sentence reflects the vile nature of the offences committed.” He further described Stowell’s behavior: “Stowell acted in a selfish and manipulative manner with the sole purpose of sexual gratification.
The children, now adults, have displayed remarkable courage to stand up and face him.
They have relived horrific and disturbing memories to ensure that no other children are subjected to such atrocity.” Despite his crimes, DC Crilley acknowledged Stowell’s early guilty plea and willingness to cooperate, saying, “Although I give no credit to Stowell, I feel it is important to acknowledge his willingness to talk and his early guilty plea, which lessened further suffering and anguish to the families involved.
He has acted positively throughout the investigation, and this should encourage other perpetrators of similar crimes to come forward and speak to the police.” In addition to his prison sentence, Stowell will be disqualified from working with children for life and will be placed on the sex offenders’ register permanently.
DC Crilley emphasized the importance of victims’ courage, stating, “The bravery of those involved in this case sends a clear message to all victims and offenders of child sexual abuse.
The message is simple – children can talk, and we will listen.” Cheshire Police can be contacted on 0845 458 0000.
