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

In a disturbing case that has shocked the Birmingham community, David Stewart, aged 25, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of heinous crimes involving a young girl. The incident unfolded over several months, during which Stewart, from Stirchley, engaged in a calculated campaign of grooming and manipulation targeting a 13-year-old girl.

It was revealed that Stewart initially made contact with the victim through social media platforms, establishing a disturbing online relationship that raised alarm among her family members. The girl’s mother, concerned about her daughter’s online interactions, reported her suspicions to the police, prompting an investigation into Stewart’s activities.

According to Greater Manchester Police, Stewart’s grooming process was methodical and manipulative. Over an extended period, he isolated the girl from her support network, gradually eroding her resistance and trust. His ultimate goal appeared to be to lure her away from her family and into a situation where he could exploit her sexually.

In September 2023, Stewart was arrested on suspicion of sexual grooming. Following his arrest, he was released on bail but was issued a child abduction warning notice. This legal measure prohibited him from contacting or spending time with the victim, aiming to protect her from further harm. The police explained that such notices are crucial tools in safeguarding vulnerable children from predators, allowing officers to intervene and prevent potential abuse.

Despite these precautions, authorities later discovered that Stewart had continued to maintain contact with the girl. In December 2023, police intelligence indicated that he had lured her to an airport, an act that marked a significant escalation in his criminal behavior. An extensive investigation involving CCTV footage analysis uncovered critical evidence, including footage that showed Stewart sexually abusing the girl during the airport encounter.

Following this discovery, law enforcement launched a manhunt to locate Stewart. The search culminated in his arrest in Shropshire, within the West Midlands region. He was swiftly transported back to Manchester, where he faced formal charges. Stewart was remanded in custody to prevent any further risk to the public.

At his trial, Stewart pleaded guilty to multiple serious charges, including two counts of engaging in 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, reflecting the gravity of his offenses.

In addition to his prison sentence, Stewart was subjected to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which imposes strict restrictions on his future conduct. He was also issued a restraining order to prevent any contact with the victim or her family, ensuring ongoing protection for the young girl and her loved ones from further harm.