BOLTON CHURCH DEACON MICHAEL HIGSON SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN BOLTON
In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Bolton, Michael Higson, a church deacon and youth leader at West Houghton Pentecostal Church, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for a series of heinous child sex offences.The crimes, which spanned from 2009 to 2016, involved grooming and sexually abusing two teenage girls, exploiting the trust placed in him by their families.
Higson, 34 years old and residing on Cairngorm Drive in Bolton, used his position within the church and his role as a youth leader to manipulate and exploit vulnerable young girls.
His criminal activities only came to light after a family member of one of his victims discovered a text message from him on the victim’s phone, raising suspicions that prompted further investigation.
The court heard that Higson’s first victim was just 13 years old when he began grooming her.
He engaged in inappropriate online communication, suggesting sexual behaviors and establishing a pattern of manipulation.
Over the course of several years, Higson continued to have physical contact with her, which persisted until the victim decided to end the relationship.
In addition to this, Higson was found to have sexually exploited a second girl, aged 14.
The family of this second victim became suspicious after noticing messages from Higson on her phone, which led to police involvement.
The authorities were called in February, and Higson was promptly arrested and charged with multiple offences.
Detective Constable May Preston, who was involved in the case, commented on Higson’s manipulative tactics, stating, “Higson manipulated his position in society to gain the trust of these girls and their parents.
Once he had accomplished that, he then set out to groom these young girls and sexually exploit them.” The case has highlighted the dangers of grooming within community institutions and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable children from those who seek to abuse their trust.
Higson’s sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such predatory behavior and the need for continued awareness and safeguarding measures within local communities.
