Predator Michael Owen Jailed for Kidnapping Intoxicated Teen
Michael Owen from Bridgewater Street, Hindley, was locked up for seven years and six months at Manchester Crown Court today. He pleaded guilty to kidnapping and assaulting a 16-year-old girl.
False Friend or Fiend?
The court heard Owen spotted the drunken teenager outside a nightclub in Leigh at 5am on 13 March 2022. Pretending to look out for her, he helped her to her feet and got her into a taxi. He told the driver to drop them off at his own home.
Once inside, the girl woke up partially clothed in Owen’s bed, screaming to leave. Owen insisted he was just taking care of her. Her memory was patchy, she told the court via video link, but she next recalled the sound of banging at the front door – her father trying to rescue her.
Dad’s Quick Thinking Breaks Kidnapper’s Spell
Her father had tracked her down by ringing the phone she’d dropped in the taxi. Owen simultaneously called 999 to report banging at his door, while the dad reported the kidnapping to police.
Officers arrived minutes later, arrested Owen on the spot and took the victim to hospital for checks.
Judge Labels Owen Dangerous, Orders Lifetime Ban
Owen was dubbed a dangerous offender by the judge, who slapped him with an extended four-year licence and a lifetime restraining order banning contact with the victim. He’s also subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, with details to be settled later.
Detective Slams Owen: ‘We Will Find You’
“We are very pleased with today’s result. Owen is a dangerous individual who preyed on this young girl under the guise of helping her,” said Detective Sergeant Chris Preston from Wigan CID.
“We thank the victim and her father for their bravery and support throughout this investigation, which led to his conviction.
“If you have been sexually assaulted, call 999 immediately. We will listen and fight to bring perpetrators to justice. If you commit these crimes, we will find and prosecute you to the full extent of the law.”
