DEAN SEEDLE FROM ST ANNES ESCAPES JAIL AFTER SEXUAL RELATIONSHIP WITH 14-YEAR-OLD IN BLACKPOOL

In December 2009, a disturbing case involving a man from St Annes, Dean Seedle, came to light at Preston Crown Court, revealing a troubling pattern of inappropriate conduct towards a minor. The court heard that Seedle, aged 33 and employed at a local store, had engaged in a series of sexual activities with a 14-year-old girl during her work experience in Blackpool. The relationship, which developed over time, included multiple instances of sexual encounters, some of which took place in private settings such as a shower.

According to the prosecution, Brett Gerrity, the offences came to the attention of authorities when colleagues and others became suspicious of the amount of time Seedle and the young girl were spending together. Concerned individuals contacted the police, prompting an investigation. When officers questioned the girl, she disclosed details of the ongoing sexual relationship, which had begun under circumstances that raised serious alarm.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Seedle had sent the girl explicit text messages, further complicating the case. When arrested, Seedle admitted to knowing that his actions were wrong, claiming he had researched such behavior on the internet. He explained to police that he was 'blinded by love,' a statement that did little to mitigate the severity of his actions.

Seedle’s defense, led by Julie Taylor, emphasized that he had pleaded guilty and had been upfront with his employer about the case. The defense also argued that the situation did not involve grooming, asserting that the girl was a willing participant and that Seedle was 'immature.' Taylor acknowledged Seedle’s acceptance of responsibility, stating, 'He does not seek to blame anyone else for his actions. He accepts what he did was wrong. He gave into temptation.'

Judge Anthony Russell QC sentenced Seedle to 50 weeks in prison, suspended for two years. The judge highlighted the importance of protecting young people, but also considered Seedle’s naivety and the fact that the girl was a willing participant. As part of his sentence, Seedle will be supervised for two years and required to attend a sex offenders treatment program. Additionally, he was placed on the Sex Offenders Register for ten years, disqualified from working with children for the same period, and subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order to restrict contact with minors.

Det Insp Tony Baxter of Blackpool CID commented on the case, stating that Seedle would be unable to contact his young victim as a result of the court’s orders. Baxter expressed relief that Seedle had admitted guilt early in the process, avoiding the trauma of a trial for the victim. He added, 'He will be heavily monitored and hopefully his victim can now begin to move on.' The case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to address and prevent such disturbing incidents within the community of Blackpool and surrounding areas.