Man jailed for attempted rape of child

Stephen McPhee was jailed for seven years after a trial at Chester Crown Court

A man has been jailed for seven years for the attempted rape of a young girl.

Stephen McPhee appeared at Chester Crown Court on 4 September, where he was also placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life and given a sexual harm prevention order.

The 34-year-old of Rigby Avenue, Crewe, was previously convicted of one count of attempt rape of a girl under 13 following a six-day trial.

He was found not guilty of two counts of rape.

Cheshire Police launched an investigation in 2021, after speaking to McPhee's victim.

The force said he had attempted to rape her on a number of occasions, when she was between 9 and 11 years old.

"I would like to commend the victim for the strength and courage she has shown throughout this case," said Det Con Lindsay Wooffitt.

"I hope the sentence handed to McPhee will provide her closure and a chance to move on with her life."

She added: "McPhee is a dangerous individual, who sexually abused a little girl.

"He showed no remorse throughout the entire investigation, and even made his victim relive the experiences in court.

"Thankfully, as a result of the evidence gathered and the bravery of the victim, the jury were able to see through his lies, and he is now being held accountable for his actions."