JAKE GODDARD FROM WATFORD SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL COMMUNICATION WITH UNDERAGE GIRL

A man from Watford has received a suspended prison sentence after admitting to engaging in repeated sexual communication with a minor under the age of 16. Jake Goddard, who resides on Curtiss Drive in the Leavesden area, appeared before St Albans Crown Court where he was sentenced on January 6. The court handed him a six-month prison term, which was suspended for a period of 18 months, reflecting the seriousness of his actions and the court’s decision to allow him to serve his sentence conditionally.

Goddard, aged 26, had previously entered a guilty plea at a magistrates’ court in November, but his sentencing was delayed twice before the final hearing. Court records detailed that between May 31 and October 7, 2023, he engaged in multiple instances of communication with a girl he was aware was under 16 years old. These interactions included discussions about sexual acts and body parts, as well as the sending of explicit images of himself. He also persistently asked the girl to send him images of herself, demonstrating a pattern of inappropriate and predatory behavior.

In addition to the suspended sentence, the court ordered Goddard to complete 120 hours of unpaid community work. He was also required to pay £187 in court costs. The case highlights ongoing concerns about online grooming and the importance of safeguarding minors from exploitation, especially in local communities like Watford and Leavesden where such incidents can have a profound impact on residents.