In 2026, the Offender Database recorded that Tomas Sarmento, 43, originally from East Timor, was jailed for 17 years for the grooming and sexual abuse of a young girl. On appearing at Liverpool Crown Court on Friday 13 March 2026, the defendant, of the Winsford area, was sentenced following an eight-day trial that concluded in January. It was reported that the systematic abuse took place between 2022 and 2023, beginning when the victim was just eight years old.
The investigation established the predatory and calculated methods used by Sarmento to target the child. Cheshire Constabulary reported that Sarmento lured the victim to his home in Winsford under the pretence that she could use his Wi-Fi. The prosecution reported that once the girl was inside the address, he subjected her to obscene acts of sexual violence. The abuse was eventually uncovered after the victim found the courage to confide in a friend, who subsequently alerted the police.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The court reported that Sarmento maintained a total denial of any wrongdoing throughout the investigation, showing no remorse for the trauma he inflicted. Liverpool Crown Court heard how the victim had to relive her ordeal by giving evidence during the trial, a process the police described as truly remarkable for its courage. The investigation established that Sarmento was a dangerous predator who deliberately manipulated his position as a trusted adult to isolate his victim.
Detective Constable Ann Muldowney noted that Sarmento’s sentence ensures he no longer poses a risk to other innocent children. For his actions in Winsford, Sarmento was found guilty of rape of a girl under 13 and causing a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity. The judge noted the “vile” and “shameful” nature of the betrayal of trust and handed down the 17-year custodial term, alongside a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
Status and Statutory Requirements
For the crimes reported in England, the status of Tomas Sarmento is as follows:
- Custodial Sentence: 17 years in prison (2026).
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements were activated for 10 years.
- SHPO Status: 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order in effect.
- Judicial Oversight: Sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court following a Cheshire Constabulary investigation.
- Criminal Record: Rape of a girl under 13; Causing a child to engage in sexual activity.
- Origin: Winsford, Cheshire (Originally East Timor).
Monitoring and Public Protection
Sarmento is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by the police and the National Probation Service in Cheshire. Due to the nature of his conduct in Winsford, which involved the grooming of an eight-year-old through digital manipulation and physical isolation, his management is subject to the highest level of scrutiny. Authorities state that his 10-year SHPO and his inclusion on the Sex Offenders Register are vital tools to ensure he is subject to residency checks and is strictly monitored upon his eventual release.
As a member of the Sex Offenders Register, Sarmento must comply with all notification requirements regarding his identity and residence. Authorities state that his history of sexual violence in Cheshire necessitates permanent vigilance. Any future attempt to approach children, offer internet access to minors, or engage in inappropriate behaviour in Winsford or elsewhere will result in immediate arrest and a return to the court system for further incarceration.
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