JOEL CHADWICK FROM ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE CAUGHT IN DISTURBING CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN MANCHESTER AND BIRMINGHAM

In a disturbing case that highlights the dangers of online grooming and exploitation, Joel Chadwick, a 20-year-old resident of Wilshaw Grove in Ashton-under-Lyne, was found guilty of a series of serious offences involving a young girl. The incident unfolded in September 2020, when Chadwick lured a minor from Birmingham to Manchester under false pretenses, leading to a series of criminal acts that shocked the local community and prompted a police investigation.

According to court records, Chadwick had initially met the girl through online platforms, fully aware that she was underage. Despite knowing her age, he persistently encouraged her to send explicit images, exploiting her vulnerability for his own gratification. The situation escalated when Chadwick arranged for the girl to travel from Birmingham to Manchester, covering her transportation costs, in order to meet him in person. This act of manipulation demonstrated his intent to engage in sexual activity with a minor far from her home environment.

Once the girl arrived in Manchester, Chadwick took her back to his residence, where he recorded himself engaging in sexual acts with her. The recording and other incriminating evidence came to light when police were alerted over concerns for the child's welfare. Authorities acted swiftly, locating the girl and ensuring her safe return to her family in Birmingham. The case drew significant attention due to the calculated nature of Chadwick’s actions and the serious harm inflicted on the young victim.

Further investigation revealed that Chadwick was not only involved in these sexual offences but also engaged in criminal activities related to drug supply. Detectives uncovered messages and items on his mobile phone indicating that he had offered to supply drugs, including cocaine and other controlled substances classified as Class B drugs. These discoveries added to the severity of his criminal profile.

Chadwick had previously pleaded guilty to eight separate charges, which included five counts of making indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of a child, detaining a child to prevent lawful control, possessing extreme pornographic images involving acts with animals, offering to supply cocaine, and engaging in sexual activities with a minor. His criminal record also includes charges related to arranging and facilitating child sex offences and engaging in sexual communication with a child.

At Minshull Street Crown Court, Chadwick was sentenced to two years and five months in prison for his crimes. Additionally, he was issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that will restrict his activities for the next ten years, aiming to prevent any further harm or reoffending. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threats posed by online predators and the importance of vigilant law enforcement efforts to protect vulnerable children from exploitation.