BENJAMIN BRINE FROM BLACKBURN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST UNDERAGE GIRLS
In March 2014, a Blackburn man was convicted of sexually abusing underage girls in a local park.Benjamin Brine, aged 21, faced eight charges related to engaging in sexual activities with girls aged 12, 13, and 15.
During a court hearing at Preston Crown Court, he was sentenced to four years and six months in prison.
It was revealed that Brine was in a two-month relationship with one of his victims and had engaged in full sexual intercourse with her.
Even after the relationship ended, he continued to send her messages, expressing his desire to continue sexual activities.
Detective Inspector Claire McEnery from the public protection unit commented after the sentencing, stating, “Brine was a predatory individual who targeted young females who were vulnerable because of their age.
The police were relentless in his pursuit, and I hope this outcome sends a strong message to other adults who prey on children.” At an earlier hearing, prosecutor Adam Lodge described Brine as “deliberately preying on young girls in the park, a sexual predator in the community.” He added that one of the victims even began self-harming after discovering Brine’s involvement with other young girls.
Defence lawyer James Heywoth noted that Brine, who had no previous convictions, had taken time to reflect on his actions while in custody.
He stated, “Benjamin is not a predatory paedophile; he was in a relationship with one of the girls and expressed love for her.
He now realises he should have been the one to say no.”
