LEWIS WENHAM FROM BLACKPOOL SENTENCED FOR RAPE OF 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN BLACKPOOL

In a case that has shocked the community of Blackpool, Lewis Wenham, a 23-year-old man formerly residing on Shaw Road, has been sentenced to five and a half years in prison after pleading guilty to serious sexual offenses involving a young girl. The crimes took place in July 2010, when Wenham engaged in sexual acts with a girl who was only 12 years old at the time.

Wenham faced Preston Crown Court where he admitted to two counts of rape, along with two additional charges of sexual activity with a child. His decision to plead guilty spared the victim from the ordeal of a full trial, a fact that was acknowledged by authorities and the court. The investigation into the case was conducted by Lancashire Police in collaboration with Blackpool Council’s Awaken team, an organization dedicated to combating the exploitation of vulnerable children.

During the sentencing, Judge Michael Byrne emphasized the gravity of the offenses, stating, “This is not simply a case of two young people carried away by their emotions. The age difference is too great. Twelve years old is a very young and susceptible age for a developing teenager.” The judge’s remarks underscored the serious nature of the crimes and the vulnerability of the young victim.

It was revealed that Wenham and the girl had met several weeks prior to his arrest, raising concerns about ongoing exploitation and grooming. Detective Constable Dave Higham expressed relief that the victim was spared the trauma of a trial, saying, “I am pleased that the victim was spared the trauma of having to go through the rigours of a trial as a result of the guilty plea and hope that she can now put this behind her and move on with her life.” He also highlighted the importance of the sentence, stating, “I am pleased with the sentence given which reflects the serious nature of the offences committed by Wenham. I hope this sends a clear message that anyone committing such offences will be dealt with severely.”

As part of his punishment, Wenham has been placed on the sex offenders register for life and was issued an eight-year sex offenders’ prevention order. This order explicitly prohibits him from having any contact with children under the age of 16, aiming to prevent any future harm and protect other vulnerable minors in the Blackpool area.