SOUTHPORT SEX OFFENDER JAILED AFTER ABUSING DISABLED WOMAN
A sex offender who abused a severely disabled woman then "laughed at" her outside a shop has been jailed.Although Steven Yates had issued threats in an attempt to keep his crimes secret, his wife was left in tears in court as his vile behaviour was exposed.
He continues to maintain his innocence.
Yates, of Derby Road in Southport, sexually abused a woman in her 30s, who suffers from learning difficulties.
The court has told that Yates had repeatedly engaged in sexual activity with her, despite her not having the capacity to consent.
This included the 47-year-old rubbing and stroking her arms and legs and kissing her.
He had also discussed "dating one another", despite her saying that she "could not .
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in the eyes of the law." Then, he went on to touch her breasts over her clothing and caused her to "stroke his inner and outer thigh", whilst he "talked about being sexually aroused".
On another occasion, he asked the complainant to "go with him into his bedroom" and "said he wanted to have sex with her".
When she threatened to tell her mum, Yates allegedly told her she "would be put in a home" if she did.
Keith Sutton, prosecuting, read a statement from the victim's mother, who said that Yates parked outside the family's car and "laughed at" her daughter, expressing how she used and abused her family.
Yates has a previous conviction for malicious communications in 2020.
His defence highlighted a three-year delay in reporting, mental health issues including PTSD, depression, and anxiety, and health problems.
He is reliant on walking sticks and has attempted suicide.
He lives with his wife, who is blind and has epilepsy, and has been her full-time carer.
Following a trial, Yates was found guilty of nine sexual offences.
His sentencing included a jail term of four years and nine months, an indefinite sexual harm prevention order, a 15-year restraining order from contacting the victim, and lifetime registration as a sex offender.
The judge noted the victim's lack of capacity to consent, Yates's exploitation of her vulnerability, and personal mitigation such as his mental health issues and family circumstances.
Merseyside Police commented on the case, emphasizing their support for the victim and their commitment to protecting individuals from sexual abuse.
