A man has been jailed for 16 years today for the rape of a girl in Melling

Man jailed for 16 years for rape and indecent assault - A man has been jailed for 16 years today (Wednesday 19 June) for the rape of a girl in Melling in the early 2000s.

William Bresnahan, 75 years, of Waddicar Lane in Melling was jailed at Liverpool Crown Court for the rape of a female under 16 after allegations were reported to police in April 2017.

Bresnahan was found guilty of three counts of rape and three counts of indecent assault by a jury at Liverpool Crown Court on 20 May following a trial. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison with an extended one year on licence.

Detective Inspector Catherine Walsh said: "Bresnahan is now behind bars, where he belongs. He took advantage of a young, vulnerable girl for his own sexual gratification with no regard whatsoever for her feelings at the time, or the long-standing impact such experiences can have on victims.”

"Having put his victim through that ordeal, he then chose to continue to refuse to take responsibility for his depraved actions and put her through the added torment of a trial.”

"Today's sentencing will not change the fact that the victim's life has been deeply affected by Bresnahan’s actions, but I hope it gives her some sense of closure and justice.”

"She has found the courage to speak out and report Bresnahan’s crimes and I would like to pay tribute to her dignity and bravery. I'd also like to thank officers and our partners in the Crown Prosecution Service.”

"Merseyside Police does not see time as a barrier to obtaining justice, and takes every report of sexual offences extremely seriously, whether they are recent or not. We have dedicated officers who are trained to both thoroughly investigate sexual assault allegations and make sure that those reporting them are properly supported.”

"I would like to take this opportunity to reassure and urge anyone who has suffered a sexual offence that if you can find the courage to come forward and speak to us, we will deal with you sensitively and make sure that reports are properly and thoroughly investigated."

Anyone wishing to report a sexual offence can call officers in the force's specialist Unity team on 0151 777 1382. Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

*Support for victims is also available through the registered charity the Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre Cheshire and Merseyside, who can be contacted on 01925 221 546 or 0330 363 0063 or Rape and Sexual Assault Merseyside (RASA) on 0151 558 1801.