Care worker jailed for child sex offences against teenager

A care worker from Greater Manchester has been jailed after admitting sexual offences against a teenager.

Shaun Vincent, 36, was jailed for 21 months on 9 September 2024 at Bolton Crown Court and was made the subject of a 10-year sexual harm prevention order.

Vincent admitted some lesser offences but denied the more serious sexual offences until the day of trial, when, having seen the strength of the case against him, he pleaded guilty to the other seven offences.

Knowing the teenager was unable to consent, Vincent still made unwanted sexual advances, using sexual language and committing sexual offences against her.

Following his arrest, he continued to contact the teenager in breach of his police bail conditions so was brought swiftly before the court in custody and has remained in custody since charge.

Jo Palmiero, Senior Crown Prosecutor for CPS North West, said: “As a care worker, Shaun Vincent was responsible for the wellbeing of children.

“He abused the trust placed in him in the worst way by committing sickening sexual offences against a teenager.

“The CPS worked with Greater Manchester Police to build a strong case to put before the court, including eyewitness testimony, phone evidence showing the messages Vincent sent to the girl and forensic evidence linking him to the victim. The strength of the evidence meant Vincent had no option but to plead guilty.

“I can only hope that the sentence provides some closure for the young victim, and she can begin to move forward knowing her abuser is facing the consequences of his actions.”