PENISTONE PAEDOPHILE IAN MIDDLETON SENTENCED FOR SEX ABUSE AGAINST CHILDREN

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Penistone, Ian Middleton, a man previously known for his role as a lollipop man, has been sentenced to prison for a series of serious sexual offences involving young girls. Middleton, aged 52, was found guilty of abusing eight young girls, with the abuse taking place in and around his place of business, Waddies General Store, located on Green Road in Penistone.

According to police reports, Middleton exploited his position and the trust placed in him by children and their families to carry out his predatory acts. The abuse was uncovered after a 12-year-old girl showed her mother personal items that Middleton had purchased for her, including a bra, thong, and suspenders, which he had given her on Valentine’s Day. This discovery prompted further investigation, revealing a pattern of inappropriate behavior and sexual misconduct.

Middleton’s misconduct extended beyond physical abuse. He also engaged in inappropriate communication with one of the victims via social media platforms. He sent her messages on Facebook and text messages in which he referred to himself as her boyfriend and expressed a desire for her to be in bed with him. These messages added a disturbing dimension to his crimes, illustrating his manipulative and predatory nature.

During the court proceedings at Sheffield Crown Court, Middleton admitted to 16 counts of sexual offences. These included 14 counts of sexually assaulting a child under the age of 13, and two counts of engaging in sexual activity with children aged 13 and 15. The court also ordered four additional offences to lie on file, meaning they were not formally prosecuted but could be considered in sentencing.

The judge described Middleton as “a determined and predatory paedophile,” emphasizing the serious and calculated nature of his crimes. As a result, Middleton was sentenced to seven years in prison, a punishment reflecting the gravity of his offences and the harm inflicted upon his young victims. The case has left a lasting impact on the Penistone community, raising concerns about safeguarding and the importance of vigilance in protecting children from exploitation and abuse.