THOMAS LAWTON FROM BARNOLDSWICK SENTENCED FOR GROOMING AND DRUG OFFENCES IN MORECAMBE AND CARNFORTH

In a serious case that has shocked the local community, Thomas Lawton, a 27-year-old resident of Barnoldswick, has been sentenced to prison for his involvement in grooming minors and drug-related offences. The incident unfolded earlier this year, culminating in Lawton's arrest and subsequent conviction at Preston Crown Court.

On the early morning of April 30th, police received a distress call reporting that two teenage girls had gone missing from an address in Morecambe. Responding swiftly, officers arrived at the scene and soon located the two girls, aged 14 and 12, in the vicinity. Lawton, who was later identified as the suspect, was apprehended nearby in his vehicle shortly after the girls were found.

Investigations revealed that Lawton had been communicating with the 14-year-old girl through online messaging platforms. It was established that he had traveled from Barnoldswick to Morecambe with the intent of luring the girls. Lawton picked up the 14-year-old and her 12-year-old companion before driving them to the Carnforth area. During the journey, he offered the girls cocaine and made plans to engage in sexual activity with the older girl. However, the girls, frightened by the situation, insisted on being taken home. Lawton complied, returning the girls close to their residence before driving away to avoid further detection.

Lawton's quick arrest, approximately an hour after the girls were reported missing, led to charges of grooming and drug possession. He was brought before the court, where he pleaded guilty to the offences of grooming and possession of cocaine. The court sentenced him this week to a prison term of two years and four months. Additionally, Lawton was subjected to a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and a 10-year notification requirement, aimed at monitoring and preventing future offences.

This case highlights the ongoing concerns about online grooming and drug-related crimes involving young people, and Lawton's conviction serves as a stern warning to those who seek to exploit vulnerable minors in the Barnoldswick, Morecambe, and Carnforth areas.