WORTHING TAXI DRIVER ANDREW CULLEN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST TEENAGER IN PORTSMOUTH

In a case that has shocked the community of Worthing, Andrew Cullen, a 53-year-old taxi driver, was sentenced to seven years in prison for serious sexual offences committed against a teenage girl. The offences stemmed from a grooming process that took place online, specifically through Instagram, where Cullen engaged with the 14-year-old victim.

The court proceedings, which concluded on January 20 after a trial lasting approximately a week and a half, resulted in Cullen being found guilty of multiple charges. These included grooming the young girl and committing five separate counts of sexual assault through physical contact. The verdict underscores the severity of the crimes and the breach of trust involved.

Andrew Cullen, who was previously licensed as a taxi driver operating in Worthing, has since been dismissed from his job and his taxi license has been revoked. His actions have not only led to criminal charges but also to a lifetime registration as a sex offender, a measure designed to monitor and restrict his movements and interactions.

As part of his sentencing, Cullen will serve the initial five years of his prison term behind bars. Following this, he will be subject to an additional two years of extended supervision under a prison licence, which aims to prevent further offending. Furthermore, the court has imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) on Cullen, which will remain in effect until further court order. This order significantly limits his access to electronic devices and restricts his contact with minors, reflecting the serious nature of his offences and the need for ongoing supervision to protect the public.

The case highlights the dangers of online grooming and the importance of vigilance among parents, guardians, and young people themselves. Authorities continue to emphasize the need for awareness and preventative measures to combat such predatory behavior, especially in communities like Worthing where Cullen’s actions have caused widespread concern.