ANDREW COLBECK FROM LINGDALE SENTENCED FOR CHILD GROOMING AND SEXUAL OFFENSES IN TEESSIDE

In a case that has shocked the local community, Andrew Colbeck, a man with a troubling history of child sex offenses, was sentenced to five years in prison for grooming and engaging in unlawful sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl. The incident took place in the area of Lingdale, where Colbeck, aged 51 at the time, targeted the young teenager, exploiting her vulnerability over a period of months.

According to court proceedings at Teesside Crown Court, Colbeck used manipulative tactics to gain the trust of the girl, providing her with alcohol and cigarettes, which are illegal for someone of her age. He also took her on day trips to the North York Moors, further establishing a pattern of grooming behavior designed to isolate and control her. The court heard that Colbeck maintained communication with the girl through internet chat rooms he had set up, which served as a platform for his predatory actions.

When authorities arrested Colbeck last year, they discovered child pornography stored on his computers, adding a disturbing dimension to his crimes. The evidence led to his conviction on multiple charges, including sexual activity with a minor and 17 counts related to indecent images of children. Colbeck admitted to engaging in sexual acts with the girl, acknowledging the illegal relationship.

This conviction marks Colbeck’s third encounter with the law concerning child sex offenses. The judge, Peter Fox, expressed deep concern over the impact of Colbeck’s actions on his victim, emphasizing the emotional and psychological scars inflicted. He described the victim’s statement as “sorrowful reading,” highlighting the profound effect the abuse has had on her life. Judge Fox also pointed out that Colbeck’s failure to accept responsibility and his denial of grooming behavior demonstrated a troubling lack of remorse.

During the sentencing, the judge noted that Colbeck, who was prosecuted previously at age 18 and again in 2001, was in his 40s when he committed these latest offenses. His defense lawyer, Paul Cleasby, described him as “a sad and lonely individual with unhealthy curiosities,” but also acknowledged that Colbeck had not offended for several years. Cleasby argued that Colbeck’s admission of guilt was a mitigating factor, as it spared the victim from reliving her trauma during a trial.

As part of his punishment, Colbeck will be required to sign the sex offenders’ register for life. He is also prohibited from working with children and from having unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 16. The case has once again brought to light the dangers of grooming and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable young people in the Lingdale area and beyond.