Paedophile David McMullan Jailed for Child Rape
David Joseph McMullan, 32, has been sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court after pleading guilty to four counts of raping a child under 16. The Downpatrick man was also slapped with a lifelong sexual harm prevention order.
Horrific Crimes Spanning Years
McMullan, from Demesne View, Downpatrick, was arrested in Northern Ireland in March 2022. His offences took place between 2019 and 2021 on the Wirral, Merseyside. The investigation kicked off after his victim bravely reported that McMullan groomed and raped her.
Police and Prosecutors Laud Victim’s Bravery
“The victim’s strength in coming forward and seeing this through an arduous judicial process means McMullan will now serve significant time behind bars,” said Detective Constable Jennifer Davies, who led the probe.
“No sentence can undo the damage caused, but seeing McMullan face justice should bring some closure and stop him harming anyone else.”
DC Davies praised the cross-border teamwork with Police Service Northern Ireland and the support from CPS for bringing the predator to justice.
Council and CPS Vow To Fight Child Exploitation
Councillor Kathy Hodson, chair of Wirral’s Children and Young People committee, condemned the crimes. She hailed the victim’s “incredible resilience” and praised police and charity Catch 22 for their support.
“Child Sexual Exploitation is a priority for Wirral Council and safeguarding partners,” she said. “Visit our safeguarding children partnership website to learn how to spot signs and protect vulnerable children.”
Senior Crown Prosecutor Wendy Scott labelled McMullan a “predatory paedophile” whose actions have lifelong effects on victims.
“We couldn’t have taken this case to court without the victim’s courage,” Scott explained. “Her evidence helped protect others from abuse. Bringing these cases takes a team effort, and we remain committed to justice for victims.”
