RUSHDEN MAN DANIEL WAINWRIGHT SENTENCED FOR GROOMING UNDERAGE BOY IN SHOCKING CASE

In July 2020, a disturbing case emerged from Rushden involving Daniel Wainwright, a 39-year-old man who was convicted of grooming an underage schoolboy into engaging in sexual activities. The case was heard at Northampton Crown Court, where it was revealed that Wainwright, a former primary school teaching assistant, exploited the trust of a young boy who had confided in him about his sexuality.

According to court proceedings, Wainwright’s inappropriate conduct began several years prior, when he kissed the boy and subsequently groomed him into a sexual relationship that persisted for nearly two years. The court heard that the victim, who was under the age of 16 at the time, had initially confided in Wainwright about being gay. Despite the boy’s initial rejection of his advances, Wainwright continued to pursue him, ultimately leading to a series of illegal sexual encounters.

Prosecutor Kaja Reiff-Musgrove detailed that Wainwright, who resided on Sartoris Road in Rushden, was only caught when someone unexpectedly walked in on him and the young boy together. This incident prompted the authorities to investigate, leading to Wainwright’s arrest and subsequent charges.

During his first court appearance before magistrates, Wainwright admitted to three counts of sexual activity with a child, which encompassed twelve separate occasions. The court clarified that any sexual activity after the boy turned 16 was considered legal and consensual, but the illegal acts occurred when the victim was still underage.

Judge Rebecca Crane addressed the court, stating, “You took advantage of him, particularly as he confided in you about his sexuality.” Her remarks underscored the gravity of Wainwright’s betrayal of trust and abuse of his position.

As part of his sentencing, Wainwright was given a two-year community order, which includes a 50-day requirement for rehabilitation. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid work and placed under a two-month curfew, restricting his movements from 8 pm to 6 am daily. Furthermore, he will be registered as a sex offender for five years and is subject to a sexual harm prevention order that prohibits him from joining any groups or working with children.

This case highlights the serious consequences of grooming and sexual exploitation, especially involving individuals in positions of trust within the community of Rushden.