A man has been sentenced to a significant custodial term after committing a horrifying act of burglary, sexual assault, and theft. Anthony Shackleton, 33 years old, from Queens Drive, Prenton, was convicted on Monday, October 23, at Liverpool Crown Court. The court sentenced Shackleton to five years and 10 months in prison, with an additional four years to be served on license following his release. Moreover, he has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely.

The incident occurred during the early hours of Wednesday, May 31, when a report was made that a man had broken into a residence in Woodchurch. While inside the property, the intruder entered the room of an elderly woman, rummaged through her belongings, stole her purse and bracelet, and subjected her to a sexually assault before fleeing the scene.

Extensive forensic examinations were conducted at the premises, leading to the discovery of crucial DNA evidence on a disposable vape left behind by the perpetrator, as well as on the stolen purse and the victim’s clothing. These findings linked Shackleton definitively to the crimes.

In June 2023, Shackleton was charged with burglary, attempted theft with violence, and sexual assault on a female. Subsequently, he pleaded guilty to all charges.

Expressing his thoughts after the sentencing, Detective Inspector Kevin O’Rourke commented on the deeply distressing nature of the crime, highlighting the vulnerability of the victim and emphasising that no one should ever experience such an ordeal. Initially, Shackleton denied the sexual assault allegations, but ultimately confessed when his DNA was found on the victim’s clothing during further forensic analysis.

Detective Inspector O’Rourke hopes that this case serves as a stern warning to those who would exploit vulnerable individuals in such heinous circumstances. He affirms that such offenders will face prosecution and endure significant prison sentences. He also mentioned the success of Operation Castle, which aims to reduce burglaries, bring offenders to justice, and spare residents the trauma of becoming victims of burglary. Thanks to the diligent efforts of the police involved in this operation, burglary offences have seen a year-on-year decrease across Merseyside.