A care worker in Liverpool, UK, has been jailed for sexually exploiting a vulnerable woman under his care.
Iain Barton, 57, engaged in repeated sexual activity with the woman over six months.
Liverpool Crown Court heard that he manipulated her into believing they were in a relationship.
His actions went unnoticed until he left his job after nearly 20 years of service.
Tragically, the victim became pregnant and had to undergo an abortion due to medical issues.
Court Testimony
Barton worked night shifts, assisting residents with medication, cleaning, and emotional support.
Instead of protecting the woman, he initiated a secret sexual relationship with her.
The victim, suffering from severe mental health conditions, believed he genuinely cared for her.
She revealed the abuse only after Barton left, asking staff about relationships.
Shaken and emotional, she later reported his actions to a manager.
Manipulative Behavior
Barton convinced her they didn’t need condoms and urged her to use emergency contraception.
He repeatedly told her not to tell anyone about their encounters.
The victim described him as eccentric and said she enjoyed his company.
She was devastated when she discovered she was pregnant with his child.
The pregnancy had medical complications, forcing her to terminate, an experience she called traumatic.
Sentencing and Remorse
Barton pleaded guilty to five counts of sexual activity with a mentally disabled person.
He admitted he “deserved to go to jail” for betraying his duty of care.
His defense claimed he developed an emotional attachment due to his failing relationship.
Judge Brian Cummings KC sentenced him to three years in prison.
The judge highlighted Barton’s efforts to hide his crimes and his lack of genuine remorse.
Legal Consequences
Barton received a lifetime sex offenders’ registration and a restraining order.
A sexual harm prevention order was also issued, preventing future similar offenses.
Authorities condemned his exploitation of a vulnerable woman he was supposed to protect.
They emphasized the emotional manipulation involved in his crimes.
The case serves as a warning about abuse of power in caregiving roles.
