PRESTON MAN BENJAMIN ASPIN CAUGHT ONLINE TRYING TO LURE 13-YEAR-OLD INTO SEXUAL ACTS
In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Preston, Benjamin Aspin, a 36-year-old resident of West Cliff, found himself at the center of a serious criminal investigation involving online predatory behavior.The incident came to light when Aspin was engaging in covert communication with an undercover police officer, who was posing as a minor, in an attempt to exploit a 13-year-old girl.
According to reports presented at Preston Crown Court, Aspin pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to his attempts to initiate sexual contact with a minor.
The court was informed that between October 11 and 17, 2018, Aspin believed he was communicating with a 13-year-old girl and was actively encouraging her to watch and perform sexual acts.
His actions included 'coaching' her on sexual activities, which underscores the predatory nature of his conduct.
In addition to this, Aspin admitted to attempting to incite a child into engaging in sexual activity and to another count of attempting to communicate with a minor between September 20 and October 3, 2018.
These charges highlight a pattern of predatory behavior over a period of time, during which Aspin sought to manipulate and exploit a young girl.
Further charges revealed that Aspin had attempted to involve the minor in viewing pornography and had sent her a video depicting an adult woman performing a sexual act.
These actions demonstrate a disturbing level of intent to corrupt a minor through digital means.
During the court proceedings, Aspin also admitted to possessing two category C indecent images of children, as well as a prohibited image of a child, all on November 1, 2018.
These possessions further illustrate his ongoing engagement with illegal and harmful material.
The judge warned Aspin that all sentencing options, including the possibility of imprisonment, would be considered.
Despite the gravity of the charges, Aspin was granted bail and is required to sign the Sex Offender’s Register on an interim basis, pending sentencing.
This case has raised serious concerns about online safety and the protection of minors from exploitation, prompting calls for vigilance and stricter enforcement of laws against such predatory behavior in Preston and beyond.
