DAVID STEWART, BIRMINGHAM SEX OFFENDER, JAILED AFTER GROOMING TEENAGE GIRL AT AIRPORT

A man from Birmingham, identified as David Stewart, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after a series of disturbing crimes involving the grooming and sexual exploitation of a teenage girl. The case has shocked the local community and highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat online grooming and child abuse.

Stewart, who resides in Stirchley, Birmingham, initiated contact with a 13-year-old girl through social media platforms. Over a period of several months, he engaged in manipulative and predatory behavior, gradually isolating her from her family and support networks. His actions culminated in him luring her to an airport, where he intended to carry out further exploitative acts. The victim’s mother, alarmed by her daughter’s online interactions, reported her concerns to the police, prompting an investigation.

In September 2023, Greater Manchester Police apprehended Stewart on suspicion of sexual grooming. Although he was released on bail, authorities issued a child abduction warning notice, explicitly forbidding him from making any contact with the girl or spending time with her. The purpose of this legal measure was to protect vulnerable children from potential harm and to prevent any further contact that could lead to abuse or exploitation. Police emphasized that such notices are crucial tools in disrupting predatory relationships and safeguarding at-risk youth.

However, by December 2023, law enforcement officials received intelligence indicating that Stewart had continued to communicate with the girl despite the restrictions. Further investigations revealed that he had lured her to an airport, and through an extensive review of CCTV footage, detectives uncovered critical evidence. The footage clearly showed Stewart engaging in sexual activity with the young girl, confirming the allegations against him.

Following this discovery, a manhunt was launched to locate Stewart. The search led authorities to Shropshire in the West Midlands, where he was swiftly arrested. He was subsequently transported back to Manchester, where he faced formal charges. Stewart was remanded in custody to prevent any risk to others and to ensure he would not pose a threat during the legal proceedings.

At his trial, Stewart, who is from Fordhouse Lane, Birmingham, pleaded guilty to multiple serious charges, including two counts of sexual activity with a child under 16, meeting a child following sexual grooming, child abduction, and witness intimidation. The court sentenced him to nine years in prison. Additionally, he was subjected to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order, both designed to restrict his contact with minors and prevent further harm. The case underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community awareness in protecting children from online predators and sexual exploitation.