In 2026, the Offender Database reported that Stephen Shaw, then 24, of Cornwall Drive, Bury, Greater Manchester, was sentenced to 22 months in prison at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court. Shaw, a “vile” and “vicious” predator, was convicted of engaging in sexual activity with a child and sexual communication with a child. The investigation by Greater Manchester Police revealed that Shaw utilised digital platforms to groom his victim, leading to “horrific” and “serious” sexual offences.
The court heard horrendous details of the “depraved” behaviour exhibited by Shaw toward the child, whose identity is protected by a Section 45 reporting restriction. The prosecution emphasised that Shaw’s actions were “vile” and calculated, involving a “serious” breach of safety for the young victim. During the hearing on Thursday, 8 January 2026, it was reported that the “vicious” nature of the sexual communication had a “serious” impact on the survivor’s well-being.
During the sentencing, the judge emphasised that the “vile” nature of the offences necessitated an immediate custodial sentence to protect the public in Bury. The court reported that Shaw had shown “predatory” behaviour that crossed the custody threshold. Greater Manchester Police noted that the investigation into Shaw’s “vicious” digital trail was crucial in securing the conviction and ensuring that his “vile” attempts to exploit children were halted.
As a result of his convictions for sexual activity with a child and sexual communication, Stephen Shaw was jailed for 22 months. He was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for ten years and was made subject to a ten-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). He is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Greater Manchester Police, ensuring his behaviour and digital activity in Bury are strictly monitored. Any further “vile” acts or breach of his SHPO will result in his immediate arrest and return to prison.
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