Man charged with kidnap and sex offences after reported rape in St Helens

Incident occurred after a woman believed she entered a taxi

Author: Vicky HainesPublished 1st Oct 2026
Last updated 1st Oct 2026

A man has been charged with kidnapping and multiple sex offences following a reported rape in St Helens.

The incident occurred around 1am on Sunday, 27th September, when a woman entered what she believed to be a taxi with friends in Wigan.

The car traveled to St Helens town centre where the alleged offence took place.

James Paterson, a 30-year-old from Inglewhite Road, Longridge, faces charges of two counts of rape, sexual assault, kidnapping, and assault.

He has been remanded in custody until his hearing on 28th October at Liverpool Crown Court.

Detective Inspector Jamie Heston said: “Although a man has been charged our investigation is ongoing and we are appealing to anyone with more information on what happened on that night or regarding similar incidents to come forward.

“If you have any information, please let us know as we continue with our enquiries. Any information could be vital to our investigation.”

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