DAVID WHIELDON'S SHOCKING CHILD ABUSE CASE IN CHEADLE AND NORTH STAFFORDSHIRE

In October 2011, the criminal case involving David Whieldon, a convicted paedophile from Cheadle, has sparked significant public outrage and calls for justice. Whieldon, aged 63, was sentenced to three years in prison after being found guilty of grooming and sexually abusing two very young children. The court's decision was that he would serve half of his sentence behind bars, with the remainder to be served on licence, a ruling that has deeply upset the victims' families and the local community.

Family members and friends of the young victims, who suffered at the hands of Whieldon, have initiated a campaign demanding that the sentence be reviewed and increased. Hundreds of residents across North Staffordshire have signed petitions urging the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to reconsider the leniency of the original sentencing. The campaigners argue that the impact on the victims and their families has been devastating, and they are alarmed that Whieldon could potentially be released within a few months.

Among those actively involved in the campaign is Jackie Proudlock, a mother of three aged 54, who resides in Cheadle. She was among two individuals distributing copies of the court case to families living in Onsetter Road, Berryhill, an area where they believe Whieldon now owns a house. Mrs. Proudlock recounted her experience, saying, “The police were very good, but they told us to leave it alone. I cannot and I will not. These children will suffer for the rest of their lives.” She expressed her concern for the local families, stating, “I feel very sorry for the families who live near this man. I spoke to some of them and they were very shocked. The family of the girls are devastated, and it is something they will never get over.”

In addition, a law student named Abii Flaherty, aged 18 from Meir, initiated the petition that is now circulating throughout North Staffordshire. She plans to target families in Berryhill next week, encouraging more signatures and awareness. “Other people have taken copies and are getting friends to sign them and putting them up at work,” she explained.

Jean Hayter, a 58-year-old nurse from Cheadle who helped distribute leaflets, also voiced her concerns. She mentioned that the police involved in the case were reportedly upset by the situation. Mrs. Hayter emphasized, “The original judge had warned Whieldon it was a very serious offence and he would be sent down for a very long time. Three years is far too lenient for what he has done. I would be very pleased if his sentence is increased to reflect the severity of the offences and the ripple effect it has on family and friends.”

Local residents on Onsetter Road, including mother-of-two Amanda Brindley, aged 26, and her partner Shaun Barker, aged 25, expressed their concerns about Whieldon’s potential release. Ms. Brindley remarked, “It’s not particularly nice to think someone like that will be moving here,” while Mr. Barker added, “I’m glad we have been made aware of it.”

Whieldon, who resides in Tean, admitted to two charges of sexually assaulting a child under 13 and one charge of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity. He was sentenced at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court to three years for the incitement charge, which carries a maximum penalty of 14 years. The Crown Prosecution Service has indicated that the sentence may be subject to review if it is deemed unduly lenient. A spokesperson stated, “We are seeking advice on whether we can appeal or not,” signaling ongoing efforts to ensure justice for the victims and their families.