A MAN from Warrington who raped a boy more than 20 years ago has been sentenced to six years in jail – but only after his victim’s death.
James Bean, 39, of Liverpool Road in Great Sankey, was found guilty of one count of rape and two counts of indecent assault at Liverpool Crown Court.
The court heard how at Bean’s home he subjected his victim to two years of sexual abuse between the years 1993 and 1995 during which he would tell him he wanted to ‘play a game.
On one occasion his victim suffered a terrible rape which left lasting emotional damage.
After the hearing, Detective Constable Laura Smith, of Warrington Public Protection Directorate, said: “Rape is a horrific offence, which affects victims in the most profound way. In this case the sexual offence was compounded by the fact that the victim was of a very young age which had a significant effect on him lasting into his adult years.
“He has been incredibly brave throughout the case and was forced to relive the incident during his interview. It’s with sadness that he passed away prior to the conclusion of the case.
“I would like to thank the family of the victim for their willingness to stand up to the attacker and see him brought to justice. I hope that the conclusion of this case will give the family some closure and allow them to move on with their lives.”
DC Smith added: “Cheshire Police is committed to tackling sexual violence and helps and supports victims of this type of crime.
“I hope this sentence – and the bravery shown by the victim and his family – gives others who may have suffered in silence the courage to come forward.”
Bean will be placed on the sex offenders register for life.
