ANDREW MAY FROM FLEETWOOD CAUGHT GROOMING UNDERCOVER POLICE OFFICER IN BLACKPOOL

In a disturbing case that unfolded in Blackpool, Andrew May, a 27-year-old resident of Ribble Road, Fleetwood, has admitted to attempting to groom what he believed was a 13-year-old girl over the internet. The incident came to light when May was communicating with an undercover police officer posing as a young girl online.

According to reports, May spent several hours engaging in online conversations, during which he asked the supposed victim to send him a photograph of herself. He also made explicit requests, including asking her to perform sexual acts for him. These actions were part of a pattern of grooming behavior that police have linked to May.

The police investigation revealed that May had been interacting with the online persona for some time, believing he was communicating with a minor. During the exchanges, he was directed to use a website called Sex with No Strings, which was part of the police operation to catch him in the act.

Prosecutor Matthew Siddall stated that police had seized computer equipment from May’s home, which was still under examination at the time of the court hearing. He emphasized that May’s actions constituted an attempt to incite a minor to engage in sexual activity, a serious offense under the law.

May appeared before District Judge Jeff Brailsford at Blackpool Magistrates Court, where he pleaded guilty to attempting to incite a girl to engage in sexual activity. His defense lawyer, Robert Castle, requested bail for May, arguing that his client had admitted his guilt early and was willing to live outside the Fleetwood area. However, the judge refused bail, citing the seriousness of the offense and the need for further legal proceedings.

It was decided that May should be sentenced at Preston Crown Court, and he is scheduled to appear there on August 2. The case highlights ongoing concerns about online grooming and the importance of law enforcement efforts to combat such predatory behavior.