KIERAN PEARSON FROM SPONDON SENTENCED FOR PREDATORY SEXUAL OFFENSES IN DERBY

In December 2013, a disturbing case emerged involving Kieran Pearson, a 22-year-old forklift truck driver from Spondon, who was convicted of heinous sexual offenses against two underage girls in Derby. The court proceedings revealed a pattern of predatory behavior that spanned several years, beginning with online grooming and culminating in sexual acts that resulted in one girl becoming pregnant at just 14 years old.

According to the evidence presented at Derby Crown Court, Pearson first initiated contact with one of his victims through Facebook when she was only nine years old. Over the years, his interactions escalated, and by the time she was 13, he was abusing her sexually. The court heard that Pearson’s approach was persistent and manipulative, exploiting the girl’s innocence and trust. The emotional toll of his abuse was evident, as one of the victims later expressed her feelings, stating, “I hate him. He made me feel bad about myself. I feel worthless.”

Further details revealed that Pearson was indifferent to the age difference when one of the girls confided in him about her age, stating he “was not bothered” by the fact that she was only 13. His actions and attitude demonstrated a blatant disregard for the law and the well-being of the young girls involved. Pearson, who resided on Redstart Close in Spondon, pleaded guilty to nine counts of engaging in sexual activity with girls aged 13 and 14. As a result, he was sentenced to a term of six years and nine months in prison.

During the sentencing, Recorder Adrienne Lucking addressed Pearson directly, emphasizing the gravity of his misconduct. She stated, “At the time you had contact with them, they were children. You demonstrated jealousy and a somewhat violent temperament.” The court also heard that one of the victims was placed in a difficult position, having to make adult decisions about her child’s future, including the possibility of adoption. The girl initially misled her parents, claiming that the father of her child was 15 years old, which further complicated her situation.

Social workers became involved after the girl’s disclosures, and police investigations ensued. These investigations prompted the second victim to come forward, revealing that Pearson had approached her on Facebook when she was just nine years old, while he was approximately 16. As her 14th birthday approached, Pearson sent her a message requesting to meet. The two met at a McDonald’s restaurant, where they shared a kiss, and Pearson touched her over her clothing. The court heard that his actions made it clear he was intent on establishing a sexual relationship with her.

During the court proceedings, Pearson unexpectedly walked out of the dock, but he later returned to listen to the judge’s remarks. The judge advised him, “You have the opportunity to hear everything I say and it is important you hear everything said about you, however difficult to get through this process. Remain calm.”

In mitigation, Alwyn Jones, representing Pearson, explained that his client had learning difficulties and struggled with understanding the consequences of his actions. Mr. Jones argued that Pearson believed the girls consented to the encounters, although he acknowledged that one of the victims was a child and could not legally give consent. The court responded by placing Pearson on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life, prohibiting him from having unsupervised contact with any girl under 16 and barring him from working with children in any capacity.

This case highlights the serious nature of online grooming and sexual exploitation of minors, and the legal consequences faced by offenders like Pearson in Derby.