ANDREW PENNISTON FROM PORTADOWN ESCAPES JAIL AFTER PAEDOPHILE HUNTER STING IN NORTHERN IRELAND

In a recent development in a high-profile case involving a Portadown man, Andrew Penniston, the court proceedings have taken a significant turn. Penniston, who was previously convicted and sentenced at Craigavon Magistrates Court earlier this year, faced a three-month jail term for his involvement in a disturbing online interaction with a person posing as a teenage girl. However, on Thursday, he successfully appealed his sentence, narrowly avoiding immediate imprisonment.

The case originated from an incident in December 2019, when a paedophile hunter group operating undercover posed online as a 14-year-old girl. The group engaged with Penniston, who was then 45 years old and residing in Granville Gardens, Portadown. Despite being explicitly informed of the girl’s age at the outset, Penniston continued to exchange messages with the decoy, raising serious concerns about his intentions and conduct.

In March 2021, Penniston admitted to attempting sexual communication with a child during a police sting operation. The court heard that he had previously pleaded guilty to this charge, which involved efforts to engage in sexual conversations with the undercover agent posing as a minor. The prosecution announced that a second charge, related to attempting to meet with a child following sexual grooming, would be withdrawn, though the details of the case were not fully disclosed in court.

The incident was linked to the broader context of online efforts to catch individuals attempting to exploit minors, often involving groups known as “paedophile hunters.” District Judge Peter Magill emphasized the importance of a presentence report to better understand Penniston’s background and psychological state. Defense lawyer Colm Fegan requested additional time to prepare a psychiatric report, which was granted by the court.

The case was adjourned until May 21, when sentencing is scheduled to take place. The outcome of this hearing will determine whether Penniston faces further penalties or if his appeal will result in a different sentence. The case continues to draw attention due to its implications for online safety and the ongoing efforts to combat child exploitation in Northern Ireland.