ANDREW LOVE FROM ELLAND JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST 6-YEAR-OLDS IN RASTRICK

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Elland and the surrounding areas, Andrew Love, a 23-year-old man residing on Westgate in Elland, has been sentenced to prison for a heinous series of sexual offences committed in broad daylight. The incident involved the molestation of two six-year-old girls who were simply playing in the street, an act that has left a lasting impact on the victims and their families.

According to court proceedings, Love was convicted of two separate counts of touching the young girls inappropriately. The events unfolded on September 19 of the previous year in Rastrick, a locality close to Elland. The prosecution, led by Ewan McLachlan, detailed how the girls' mother called for her children as they rode their scooters towards their home. During this moment, Love, who was nearby, suddenly chased after the children, catching their attention.

Mr. McLachlan described the scene: “He bent over, his khaki belt was undone and hanging down,” indicating a clear intent to conceal his actions. In full view of the girls’ mother, Love proceeded to touch one of the children beneath her skirt and also made contact with the other girl on her stomach. The girls’ father, who was present, found Love’s belt discarded nearby, and police later obtained DNA evidence from it, linking Love directly to the offences.

Following his arrest on October 17, Love initially claimed he could not remember the incident, suggesting that his memory might have been impaired due to alcohol or drug use. The court was also informed that Love has a troubling criminal history, including two previous convictions for indecent assault. One such incident involved Love making sexual advances towards a 17-year-old girl in a pub, followed by an attempt to follow her home, where he grabbed her around the chest, covered her mouth, and tried to touch her private parts.

During the sentencing hearing, Robin Frieze, representing Love, acknowledged the serious risk his client poses for future offending. Frieze pointed out that Love’s inability to discuss his past offences or recognize his own problematic behavior indicates a significant concern for public safety.

Judge Jonathan Rose addressed the court, emphasizing the gravity of the case. He described the circumstances as “extremely worrying,” especially because the offences occurred in daylight, in full view of witnesses. The judge condemned Love’s actions, stating, “You made a determined and pre-planned decision that you would indeed commit sexual offences against them. You pursued them, caught up with them and in full view of their mother, you went on to sexually assault them.”

He further highlighted the disturbing details of the case, noting that Love’s trousers were open and his belt was recovered at the scene, clearly indicating his intent. The judge remarked on the profound psychological harm inflicted on the young victims, emphasizing the potential for long-lasting trauma caused by such a brazen attack.

As part of his sentence, Love was placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life and was subject to a sexual offences prevention order, reflecting the seriousness with which the court viewed his actions and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.