Sex offender collapses in the dock during sentencing (From St Helens Star)

Sex offender collapses in the dock during sentencing

5:38pm Wednesday 12th September 2012 in News

An ambulance was called to Liverpool Crown Court after William Farrell was taken ill.

THE sentencing of a man convicted of a string of historic sex offences against a child, took a dramatic turn, when he collapsed in the dock.

Judge Graham Morrow cleared the court after William Farrell, who was sitting between two security guards, was suddenly taken ill.

Members of his family initially feared the worst as they left the courtroom in Liverpool.

The 64-year-old from Legh Street, Newton-le-Willows, was found guilty of six counts of sexual abuse against a girl, dating back to the early 80s.

Wearing a dark suit and tie, he was brought into the dock and sat arms folded as he listened to the list of charges against him.

His offences started when his victim, who sat behind him in the public gallery, was just six years old and continued until she was 16.

Prosecutors told how she kept the terrible secret for many years, only revealing the truth after she became pregnant and was anxious about the safety of her child.

As judge Morrow discussed sentencing options, there was a sudden noise from the back of the courtroom and Farrell’s head fell back.

The colour drained from his face as the judge cleared the court, including members of his family, as the security guards tried to revive him.

An appeal was announced over the public announcement system and within minutes Farrell was being tended to. He was taken to hospital for treatment.

Farrell is due to be sentenced on Friday.