A SEXUAL predator has been locked up for more than two decades for ‘appalling and depraved’ offences against a child.

Michael Smith was sentenced to 22 years in prison today, Friday, at Liverpool Crown Court.

The 64-year-old, from Halewood, was also ordered to spend a further year on extended licence on his release for 20 counts of child sex offences, of which he was found guilty after a trial.

The investigation was carried out after Merseyside Police received a report in 2020 of multiple sexual offences against a child, which had spanned a several-year period.

Smith was also handed a restraining order and placed on the sex offender register for life.

DC Becky Robinson said: “The predatory behaviour displayed by Smith is utterly appalling, and he will now spend years in prison for his depraved actions.

“His victim has showed immense courage and bravery to report the deplorable offences that Smith committed.

“Despite finding the courage to come forward, Smith continued to deny the offences, which meant his victim had to endure a trial and was forced to relive the horrific experiences.

“Thanks to the determination and bravery of his victim, the jury saw through Smith’s lies and he will now spend a considerable amount of time behind bars for his actions.”

DC Robinson added: “Our specialist Unity Team is committed to investigating any reports of a sexual offence, and supporting victims through the whole investigative process so that we can prevent any further crimes of this awful nature from happening.

“As you can imagine, for victims of such an appalling crime, the impact on them is significant and long-lasting.

“I hope this sentence provides some comfort in knowing they did the right thing by reporting Smith’s heinous crime to us.

“If you have experienced any form of sexual abuse, or know of a child being abused, please come forward and let us know so we can investigate.

“We take all such reports extremely seriously, and if you can find the courage to come forward and speak to us, we have specially trained officers who will treat you with sensitivity and compassion.”

If you are a child or young person suffering sexual or physical abuse, you can get help by calling Childline on 0800 1111 or the NSPCC by calling 0808 800 5000 or emailing help@nspcc.org.uk

If you have been affected by sexual violence of any kind, do not be afraid to tell someone. Find the courage to come forward and get the help you deserve.