ANTHONY GOWARD FROM LEICESTER JAILED AFTER 100-MILE TRIP TO WARRINGTON TO MEET 'CHILDREN'
In a disturbing case that highlights the dangers of online predation, Anthony Goward, a resident of Leicester, was sentenced to prison after traveling over 100 miles to Warrington with the intent of meeting what he believed were underage children for sexual abuse.The incident unfolded in May 2023, when Goward was caught in a police sting operation that exposed his malicious intentions.
Goward, aged 52 and living on Redmarle Road in Braunstone, Leicester, had engaged in a series of online communications with what he thought were underage victims.
In reality, these were undercover officers working to prevent child exploitation.
During these exchanges, Goward sent multiple messages indicating his desire to meet the children for sexual purposes, demonstrating a clear intent to commit serious offences.
After arranging the meeting, Goward drove from Leicester to Warrington, specifically heading to Burtonwood services, a well-known motorway stop.
Law enforcement officers, having been alerted to his plans, were waiting for him at the location.
When Goward arrived, he was promptly arrested by police officers on the scene, preventing any potential harm.
Following his arrest, Goward was taken into custody and charged with serious criminal offences.
He appeared before Chester Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, April 5, where he pleaded guilty to charges of arranging and facilitating the commission of a child sexual offence, as well as attempting to arrange a sexual assault of a child.
His guilty plea underscored the severity of his actions and the clear evidence against him.
Subsequently, Goward was transferred to Liverpool Crown Court for sentencing.
On Wednesday, May 3, he was handed a prison sentence of four years and four months.
In addition to his incarceration, he was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which will remain in effect for 15 years.
This order aims to restrict his activities and prevent further harm, reflecting the serious nature of his offences and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.
