A REDDITCH photographer who exploited his position to commit a string of sex and voyeurism offences has been jailed for more than eight years.
Steven Liles, aged 60, of Weatheroak Close, appeared at Worcester Crown Court on Friday. He had previously been found guilty at trial for offences spanning from 2009 to 2019.
Liles began working as a freelance photographer and videographer for private events and dance schools across the Midlands after being made redundant from a previous job. It was through these roles he met many of his victims.
Liles converted his home garage into a photography studio. He set up a hidden camera in his office, where he would ask the people he was photographing to get changed.
The footage was discovered by police after his devices were seized.
During the trial in April he was found guilty of three counts of voyeurism. Two related to footage of children and the third relates to footage of an adult.
Liles also befriended women with children and exploited his relationship with the mothers to groom and sexually assault the young girls. He was found guilty of one count of sexual assault on a child under 13. And he was found guilty of three counts of sexual activity with a child.
Handing Liles the eight years and six months jail term, Judge Jackson described the sex offender as ‘a deviant behind a mask’. He also used the words, ‘targeted’, ‘groomed’, ‘sexual predator’ and ‘false friend’.
Det Sgt Shelley Aplin, from West Mercia Police’s Major Investigation Unit, said: “I want to commend the victims for their unwavering courage and patience throughout the entire investigation.
“It has undoubtedly been extremely difficult for them.
“They have told their story and should hold their heads high. Everyone who has come forward and supported this investigation has helped bring this offender to justice.
“Liles is a predator whose behaviour affected so many lives and caused immense emotional turmoil. It was right that he has been given a lengthy prison sentence.”
Liles was also given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) indefinitely. This prohibits him from contacting and having unsupervised contact with children once released from prison. He was also ordered to pay £4,360 in court charges.
Anyone who wants to report a sexual offence or rape can visit: westmercia.police.uk or call officers on 101. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Always call 999 in an emergency.
Support available
Support for victims is offered through the Victim Support Gateway. It provides emotional and practical help to people who have been affected by crime. Through the independent charity, people can contact the Victim Support Gateway. And this offers support regardless of whether they have contacted the police. It also does not matter how long ago the crime took place.
Online chat: www.victimsupport.org.uk/help-and-support/get-help/support-near-you/live-chat/
Email: [email protected]
