KEVIN WHITTAKER SENTENCED IN CHESTER FOR ONLINE GROOMING OFFENSES IN ORFORD
A man responsible for grooming schoolgirls online through a fake profile is now behind bars.Kevin Whittaker, of Ajax Avenue, Orford, was sentenced to three and a half years in prison at Chester Crown Court on Thursday.
The court heard that the 32-year-old used Facebook to target vulnerable girls aged between 13 and 15.
He created a false account, pretending to be a 19-year-old, while hiding his true identity from his victims.
One of the victims’ parents discovered troubling messages exchanged between Whittaker and their child, which led to police becoming involved.
An extensive investigation followed, eventually identifying Whittaker as the suspect.
During the investigation, two additional victims were identified.
Whittaker was arrested and later convicted of multiple offenses, including causing a child under 13 to watch a sexual act, causing a female to engage in sexual activity without consent, and causing another child under 13 to watch a sexual act.
Chief Inspector Pete Shaw welcomed the sentencing and emphasized ongoing efforts to tackle such crimes.
He stated, "Cheshire Police will continue to investigate reports of abuse and carry out operations to tackle those who seek to take advantage of young and vulnerable children, working together with the local authority and other agencies to keep children safe." He further described Whittaker as a predator, noting, "He actively approached his victims online and was very direct with his intentions." Shaw expressed relief for the families affected, saying, "It is shocking for any parent to find their children have been targeted in such a way, and I am sure the families will be relieved to see him imprisoned."
