The sentencing took place at Manchester Crown Court on Tuesday, May 9. Akona-Dosunmo was also issued an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order to protect potential future victims.
The investigation leading to the charges against Akona-Dosunmo was conducted by Merseyside Police, who discovered that he had engaged in sexual activity with underage girls between February and March of the previous year. Akona-Dosunmo would pass his phone number to these girls, enticing them into illicit encounters.
On February 6, Akona-Dosunmo pleaded guilty to four counts of breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, two counts of sexual communication with a child, and an attempt to arrange/facilitate a child sex offence.
Detective Constable Rachael Barcas, who spearheaded the investigation, expressed satisfaction with the sentencing, stating, “We welcome this sentence given to Akona-Dosunmo as he is now behind bars and can no longer cause harm to children with his predatory offending.”
Barcas highlighted the severity of Akona-Dosunmo’s actions, mentioning that he would target schoolgirls wearing uniforms by handing them notes with his telephone number and asking them to contact him. One victim in Crosby was only 11 years old, further emphasising the serious threat he posed to children. The judge presiding over the case acknowledged that Akona-Dosunmo posed a significant risk of committing further offences due to his strong sexual urges and desires, which led him to plan ways to engage with underage girls for sexual activity.
Merseyside Police is fully committed to safeguarding victims of sexual offences, promising support and protection throughout the investigation process. Specially trained officers and Sexual Violence Advocates are available to offer the necessary assistance to anyone reporting an incident.
Detective Inspector Alan Nuttall commended Detective Constable Barcas for her relentless efforts in ensuring justice was served. He also expressed gratitude to the young victims for their courage in coming forward and providing crucial evidence to secure an appropriate punishment for Akona-Dosunmo
Nuttall emphasised the dedicated nature of their investigative team, whose mission is to bring those responsible for sexual crimes to justice and safeguard young people from enduring unimaginable suffering. He urged individuals who have experienced any form of sexual abuse or who are aware of child abuse to come forward and report it to the police. Such reports are treated with utmost seriousness, and specially trained officers are available to handle them with sensitivity and compassion.
