BURNLEY PREDATOR STUART TILLOTSON GROOMED YOUNG BOYS WITH CIGARETTES AND SWEETS
In July 2022, a disturbing case emerged from Burnley involving Stuart Anthony Tillotson, a 39-year-old man who exploited his position of trust to prey on young boys in his community.The case was brought to light during a trial at Preston Crown Court, revealing a pattern of grooming and sexual misconduct that shocked local residents and authorities alike.
According to court proceedings, Tillotson, who was only 17 years old at the time of the offenses, systematically targeted two pre-teen boys.
His method involved offering them cigarettes and sweets as a means of luring them into his control.
Once under his influence, he subjected the boys to repeated indecent assaults, which included making them expose themselves to him while he watched and masturbated.
These acts took place over multiple occasions, with the court hearing that the assaults occurred at least five times.
The court was informed that Tillotson’s actions were not impulsive but involved a degree of planning and grooming.
Both victims recounted how the defendant used the exchange of treats and cigarettes as an inducement, creating a manipulative environment that facilitated his abusive behavior.
Prosecutor Richard Haworth emphasized that the modus operandi was consistent across both cases, highlighting the calculated nature of Tillotson’s predatory conduct.
During the trial, a jury found Tillotson guilty of two counts of indecent assault, specifically touching the boys’ naked bottoms while he masturbated.
However, he was acquitted of additional charges, including buggary, attempted buggary, gross indecency, and further indecent assault allegations.
Judge Andrew Woolman delivered the sentencing, acknowledging the element of grooming involved in the case.
He stated, “I have to sentence this defendant after a jury convicted him on counts one and five only – counts of indecent assault consisting of touching the naked bottoms of the two complainants whilst he masturbated himself.
They are multi-incident counts which allege that this happened on at least five occasions, and I have to sentence on the basis that he was 17 when these offences occurred.” He further remarked, “It was a regular occurrence, and the defendant gave the boys, in my judgement, cigarettes and sweets in exchange for these sexual favours.” In light of the convictions, Tillotson was sentenced to one year in prison, suspended for two years, with no additional requirements imposed.
The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Burnley, raising concerns about the safety and vulnerability of young children in the area.
