CRAIG BEATTIE SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES IN PRESTON AND BLACKPOOL

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Preston and Blackpool, Craig Beattie, aged 32, was sentenced to a total of two years and four months in prison after admitting to engaging in sexual activity with a minor. The incident took place in Preston, specifically in the Ribbleton area, on October 4, 2009, and Beattie’s subsequent arrest occurred in December 2012.

Beattie, who was residing at the time on Hardcastle Road in Fulwood, Preston, was taken into custody by police officers following an investigation into the allegations. He did not contest the charges and pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity, acknowledging his involvement in the offense. During the court proceedings, it was established that Beattie was over the age of 18 at the time of the incident, which involved a 14-year-old girl.

He admitted to having sexual activity with a female under the age of 16, claiming that he did not reasonably believe she was 16 or older at the time. This admission was a key factor in the court’s decision to impose a custodial sentence. The judge sentenced Beattie to 28 months in prison, reflecting the seriousness of the offense.

In addition to his prison term, Beattie was subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which aims to restrict his behavior and reduce the risk of reoffending. Furthermore, he was placed on the Sex Offenders Register for a period of ten years. This means that upon his release from prison, he will be legally required to inform police of his current address and comply with other conditions designed to monitor his conduct and protect the community.