BLACKBURN PAIR KAMRAN RASHID AND LIAM JONES SENTENCED FOR GROOMING TEENAGE GIRLS
In a significant crackdown on child exploitation, two men from Blackburn have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in grooming underage girls for sexual purposes.The case, which was thoroughly investigated by the Engage team, highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and local authorities to combat such predatory crimes within the Blackburn community.
Kamran Rashid, aged 26 and residing on Johnston Street in Blackburn, received a sentence of over two and a half years behind bars.
His incarceration followed his persistent engagement in illegal activities despite being explicitly served with a notice by police not to have any contact with a 15-year-old girl.
The court heard that Rashid’s criminal record demonstrated a blatant disregard for the law, as well as an apparent inability or unwillingness to adhere to court orders.
Rashid had previously pleaded guilty to two charges of engaging in sexual activity with a minor, in addition to charges related to disqualified driving and lacking valid insurance.
Alongside Rashid, Liam Jones, a 21-year-old resident of Brodick Road in Blackburn, was also sentenced to two years in prison.
Jones admitted to having sexual intercourse with a 13-year-old girl in February 2009, and was arrested on April 24 following a lengthy investigation by the Engage team.
His guilty plea further underscores the severity of the case and the commitment of authorities to pursue justice.
Both individuals were taken into custody after detailed investigations, which involved extensive efforts by law enforcement officers dedicated to protecting vulnerable minors.
As part of their sentencing, Rashid and Jones were placed on the sex offenders register and were explicitly prohibited from working with children in any capacity.
Detective Sergeant Mark Whelan, speaking on behalf of the Engage team, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the cases.
He emphasized that the convictions send a clear message that such predatory behavior will not be tolerated within Blackburn or beyond.
Whelan praised the hard work and dedication of the Engage team, which was instrumental in bringing the offenders to justice.
Local government officials also responded to the convictions.
Councillor Chris Thayne, who is the executive member for children’s services, stated that Blackburn with Darwen has taken the issue of child exploitation very seriously.
He highlighted the commitment of local resources and support agencies working together to address and prevent such crimes, reaffirming the community’s stance against child grooming and exploitation.
