Southport man jailed after arson attack on ex-girlfriend's home
36 year old Stephen Buckley will spend four years and nine months behind bars
Last updated 3rd May 2023
A Southport man has been jailed for four years and nine months after an arson attack last year.
36 year old Stephen Buckley, of Lord Street, was convicted of setting fire to the downstairs of his ex-girlfriend's house in Newton-le-Willows on December 20 2022.
The victim, along with her teenager daughter, were able to get out of the house unharmed.
Buckley was arrested shortly after the attack and charged with arson.
Detective Chief Inspector Allison Woods, of Merseyside Police, said: “It is pleasing to see that Buckley has been given a custodial sentence to reflect the seriousness of his actions.
“To deliberately start a fire inside a house, knowing that there are people inside, is utterly appalling and it’s only down to good fortune that the two occupants were unharmed.
“Buckley started a fire in close proximity to a gas and electrical mains box, so it was incredibly reckless and dangerous. He not only endangered the lives of the two people inside the house, but also neighbouring properties.
"Domestic abuse can come in many forms, and we have dedicated officers who are specially trained to support victims throughout an investigation. We work closely with partners, charities and other organisations to break the silence and help those in need.
“We know that many people are aware offences are being committed in their neighbourhood or against people they know, but remain silent.
"I want to encourage those people to do the right thing and come forward so we can take action and help those who need it and those who may not be able to help themselves.
“If you are suffering and can find the courage to come forward, or know someone who may be a victim, please reach out to the police, local authority or support agencies and we will take action.
“Merseyside Police is committed to working together with communities and partner agencies to tackle all violence against women and girls (VAWG) in Merseyside.”