**AMENDED** Garston man sentenced following sexual assault at massage parlour

**AMENDED**

Merseyside Police can confirm the sentencing yesterday (Wednesday, 5 June) of a Garston man to a two-year suspended sentence for the sexual assault of two women last year in Mossley Hill.

44-year-old Christopher Barnes from Garston, pleaded guilty to two offences of sexual assault. He was yesterday sentenced to a two year suspended sentence and a 60-day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement. Barnes was also told to sign the Sex Offenders Register for 10 years, and given five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

The victims were women from Merseyside who had separately attended a premises in Rose Lane, Mossley Hill last year, after booking appointments for a massage. Barnes sexually assaulted the women during separate sessions.

Detective Inspector Phil Mahon said: “It is completely unacceptable for a member of the public to put their trust in who they think is a professional person, offering a professional service, to be the subject of a sexual assault.

“The victims in this case have shown great strength and courage throughout the investigation, during what must have been a terrible ordeal, one which has been exacerbated by Barnes's late plea. Merseyside Police will provide every help and support to all victims of this type of crime.

“I hope that this sentence and the conditions put it place serve as some comfort for the victims as they are still trying to come to terms with what happened to them.

“When any sexual offence is reported, there is help and support from Merseyside Police’s specially trained officers who will treat you with sensitivity and compassion. We will work with our partner support groups to support you from your initial report and for as long as you need.”

Anyone wishing to report a sexual offence can call 101 and trained call handlers will offer immediate advice and pass to specialist officers for further action. Information can also be passed to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.