ANDREW THOMASON GROVES FROM SLEAFORD SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENCES IN LINCOLNSHIRE

In a case that has shocked the local community, Andrew Thomason, who now goes by the name Groves, has been convicted of serious sexual offences and sentenced to three years in prison. The incident unfolded after Thomason, a former Royal Air Force (RAF) wing commander, was arrested in December 2018 following disturbing online behavior.

Thomason, aged 58 at the time of his arrest, was caught making sexually explicit comments in an internet chatroom, targeting what he believed to be a minor female. The police investigation was swift, and subsequent searches of his personal belongings, his vehicle, and his residence in Lincolnshire revealed evidence that contributed to his arrest and detention.

Following his arrest, Thomason was released on bail while authorities conducted further analysis of his seized items. The case progressed through the legal system, and on April 14 of this year, Thomason appeared before Lincoln Crown Court. The court found him guilty of two counts of attempting to induce a female aged 13 or over to engage in penetrative sexual activity, a conviction that underscores the severity of his actions.

The delays in the court proceedings were partly due to disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, which affected the judicial process nationwide. Despite these delays, the court ultimately delivered a firm sentence, with Thomason being ordered to serve three years in prison. Additionally, he was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, aimed at restricting his future conduct and protecting the community.

At the time of his arrest, Thomason was stationed at RAF Cranwell, a prominent military base. His background as a former RAF wing commander added a layer of public concern and media attention to the case. Previously residing on Windmill Drive in Heckington, Sleaford, Thomason has since moved outside of Lincolnshire following his removal from the RAF and subsequent disqualification from military service.

This case highlights ongoing issues related to online safety, the importance of vigilance in protecting minors, and the consequences faced by individuals who abuse their positions or trust to commit such heinous acts.