Aria Peers, a transgender individual formerly known as male, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for the rape and sexual assault of an 11-year-old girl.

The abuse came to light when the victim confided in friends and teachers. Peers was found guilty of two counts of rape, attempted rape, three charges of sexual assault, and two offences of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity following a trial at Liverpool Crown Court.

The court heard that Peers began by touching the victim inappropriately before encouraging her to use a sex toy. She was subsequently raped. Peers initially identified as male when the offenses occurred in Wirral but now identifies as female.

Sentencing, Judge Katherine Pierpoint acknowledged the grooming aspect of the case, stating that Peers took advantage of the close bond she had developed with the victim to fulfill her own sexual desires. The judge emphasized the severity of the impact on the young victim and highlighted her bravery in coming forward.

Peers was also given an indefinite sexual harm prevention order, a lifelong restraining order, and will be required to sign the sex offenders' register for life.