SKELMERSDALE PAEDOPHILE STEVEN MULLEN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

In a case that has shocked the community of Skelmersdale, Steven Mullen, aged 44, was convicted of heinous crimes involving the sexual assault of a young girl and the possession of indecent images of children. The incident that led to his conviction dates back to 2004, when he was found guilty of sexually abusing a five-year-old girl during a family holiday. The assault took place between May 1 and June 4 of that year, and the trauma inflicted on the young victim has left a lasting impact on her family.

More recently, Mullen faced additional charges related to the possession and downloading of indecent images and videos of children. These charges stemmed from activities in June and November of the previous year, during which authorities discovered that he had stored approximately 500 images on his computer. The evidence presented in court painted a disturbing picture of Mullen’s ongoing engagement with child exploitation material, further compounding the severity of his crimes.

At Liverpool Crown Court, the prosecution, led by Arthur Gibson, presented a victim impact statement from the girl’s parents. The statement conveyed the profound distress caused by Mullen’s actions, with Gibson emphasizing that “other than losing a child, this is the worst thing a parent can face.” The court heard how the young girl had kept her ordeal secret for years, demonstrating remarkable bravery in the face of such trauma.

Judge Robert Warnock, presiding over the case, took into account the aggravating factors, including the child's age and the disturbing nature of the indecent images found on Mullen’s devices. After deliberation, he sentenced Mullen to a minimum of seven years and six months in prison for the sexual assault charges, with the sentences to run concurrently. The judge expressed his concern over Mullen’s apparent denial of his predilection, which he described as a serious problem. He also highlighted the breach of trust involved, noting that Mullen had been held in high regard within his community, a reputation now irreparably damaged.

In addition to the custodial sentence, Judge Warnock ordered Mullen to register as a sex offender for life. The court also mandated the destruction of the 500 indecent images and the computer on which they were stored. Mullen’s defense, represented by Mr. Michael Hagerty, argued that there was no evidence of further abuse beyond the crimes for which he was convicted. The defense also pointed out the personal toll on Mullen’s family, who continue to support him despite his conviction.

Following the sentencing, a mother, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, spoke out about her daughter’s ordeal. She described her initial disbelief upon discovering Mullen’s actions, emphasizing that he was a trusted family friend. Her daughter, she said, had suffered in silence for years, and her bravery throughout the process was commendable. The mother expressed her relief that justice had been served, stating that Mullen’s conviction ensures he cannot harm her daughter again. She also urged other victims to come forward, highlighting that even cases of historic abuse can be successfully prosecuted.

Detective Constable Graham Hunt of West Lancashire CID, who has been involved in the investigation since it was brought to police last December, praised the courage of the victim and her family. Hunt reaffirmed Lancashire Constabulary’s commitment to thoroughly investigating all allegations of sexual abuse, regardless of how much time has passed. He encouraged anyone with information or concerns to report them, assuring the public that their cases will be handled with sensitivity and diligence.