THEATRE TEACHER JAILED FOR SENDING EXPLICIT MESSAGES TO 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL
A theatre school boss continued to work while he was banned from having contact with children and was being investigated for sending sexually explicit messages to a 14-year-old girl.Chris Higgins, of Sanderling Drive in Poulton-le-Fylde, ran the Cr8iv Little Theatre in Thornton, near Blackpool.
Higgins, aged 46, was arrested for breaking his bail conditions in March last year and was sentenced to 10 months in jail.
His wife and business partner, Claire, stated that the offence was his alone and acknowledged the impact on the victim.
Lancashire Police confirmed he was bailed under strict conditions not to contact anyone under 18 but was not prosecuted for breaching those conditions last year.
Higgins’ offending came to light on 5 September 2024 when the victim's father discovered messages from a contact named Chris, which included references to deleted messages and inappropriate content.
The police found sexually explicit messages on Higgins’ mobile, including plans to take the girl to a hotel in London.
Higgins also must serve a 10-year sexual harm prevention order.
The victim’s parents described the profound impact on their daughter, who lost her confidence and stage presence.
Det Con Stacey Billington praised their strength during the investigation.
The theatre company, Cr8iv, is being struck off the company register and awaiting dissolution.
