|
Statement following the
sentencing of Edward Brooks
MERSEYSIDE Police have confirmed
that 45 year old Edward Brooks, from Southport, was sentenced on Monday, 21
December 2015, at Liverpool Crown Court to 4 years and 2 months imprisonment
after pleading guilty to a total of 15 drug and sexual offence charges.
Brooks was also issued with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 5 years.
Brooks was convicted of supplying cocaine and Zopiclone to a vulnerable 16
year old girl, with intent to commit a sexual offence against her. He was
also convicted of supplying both Diazepam and Dihydrocodeine, and making
indecent images. Brooks had initially befriended the victim, who had started
work at his partner's place of work. Detective Sergeant John Harrison of the
Matrix Sex Offenders Unit said:- "Brooks' actions were despicable,
grooming and exploiting the victim's vulnerability, and administering her
with drugs, including sleeping tablets, actions which were carried out with
a sexual intent. This was a complex investigation due to the age and
vulnerability of the victim and the drugs that were administered. I would
like to take this opportunity to praise the victim for her immense bravery
in giving evidence to help secure justice, which has been supported every
step of the way by the Police and our partners. We would urge other victims
of sexual offences, whether they are historic or otherwise, to not suffer in
silence and instead tell someone what has happened to them. The force is
committed to the protection and wider safeguarding issues of young people.
In doing so we view the abuse or grooming as unacceptable and will work with
partner agencies to investigate and where possible prevent such abuse. We
all have a duty of care to protect young people from harm and I would
encourage parents, grandparents, teachers, health professionals, social
services and any other adults to take a little time to better educate
themselves about child sexual exploitation. Merseyside Police has a great
website
which highlights these issues from young people's perspectives and also
shows where you can get help if you have any concerns about any child you
know. It helps victims to find the right kind of support and advice if they
have suffered abuse in the past. It also has loads of information for young
people to help them if they think they are being exploited, or if they are
worried 1 of their friends may be."
Anyone who would like to report a sexual offence or anyone with information
is asked to contact Merseyside Police on:- 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800:-
555 111.
|
