JOHN WHITEHOUSE FROM BARNOLDSWICK SENTENCED FOR GROOMING AND SEXUAL OFFENCES INVOLVING PENDLE SCHOOLGIRL

In a case that has shocked the local community of Barnoldswick and the surrounding Pendle area, John Whitehouse, a 40-year-old man, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being found guilty of grooming and engaging in sexual activities with a vulnerable 14-year-old girl. The incident, which took place over a span of three weeks in early February 2013, involved a series of disturbing encounters that have left many residents appalled and concerned about the safety of young people in the region.

According to court proceedings, Whitehouse, a married father of three, initiated contact with the teenage girl through online chat platforms. The court heard that during these conversations, Whitehouse was aware of her age but continued to engage with her, offering her a sense of companionship and understanding amid her personal struggles. The girl, who was reportedly experiencing difficulties both at school and at home, confided in Whitehouse about her problems, telling him she felt