Former detective found guilty of raping 12-year-old child

A police officer who long denied claims he had sexually assaulted a child over several years will be sentenced for his wrongdoings.

An English police detective has been found guilty of raping a child, after long denying such allegations.

Stephen Hardy, 46, sexually abused the child for eight years but always denied the crimes.

He was found guilty of rape, sexual assault and causing a child to engage in sexual activity after a four-week trial, The Sun reports.

The Liverpool Crown Court heard how Hardy‘s sick abuse unfolded between December 2012 and June 2020.

The former cop from Greater Manchester always denied the 20 charges.

He was charged in July last year, and suspended from the force. He will be sentenced on September 11.

Jo Palmiero, senior crown prosecutor for CPS North West’s rape and serious sexual abuse unit, said Hardy was in a position of trust, and manipulated his victim.

Detective Constable Stephen Hardy has long denied claims he raped a 12-year-old child. Picture: Steve Allen

Prosecutor Palmiero said: “Stephen Hardy gained the trust of the child before subjecting them to sickening sexual abuse, with no thought for the lasting damage his abuse would cause.

“Hardy was a police officer, in a position of trust, who manipulated and controlled his victim.

“I would like to commend the victim for reporting the abuse and supporting the prosecution.”

This article originally appeared on The Sun and was reproduced with permission.