JOHN WARBURTON FROM HASLINGDEN ESCAPES JAIL AFTER ALLEGED SEXUAL INCIDENT IN FRONT OF CHILDREN

In July 2012, a disturbing incident involving John Warburton, a resident of Haslingden, came to light during a court hearing at Burnley Crown Court. The case centered around Warburton, who was 51 years old at the time, and his involvement in an incident where he engaged in sexual activity in front of children within his own home. The court proceedings revealed that Warburton, who had a prior record for public indecent exposure, committed this offense while two young children were present in his residence in Haslingden.

According to the court, Warburton was on a community order at the time of the incident, which was meant to oversee his behavior following previous offenses. The court heard that he had consumed a bottle of vodka after a period of six months of sobriety, which appeared to have impaired his judgment. Warburton had no recollection of the events that transpired during this episode, adding to the complexity of his case.

The defendant, who was formerly residing on Piccadilly Street in Haslingden, was found guilty of the charges and was sentenced to a three-year community order. This included supervision and mandatory participation in a sex offender treatment program. The court also imposed strict restrictions on Warburton’s interactions with minors, specifically prohibiting him from contacting or associating with any child under the age of 16 unless accompanied by an adult. Additionally, Warburton was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of five years.

Prosecutor Michael Wallbank provided details of the incident, stating that at approximately 3:30 pm on February 25, five children, aged between six and thirteen, were walking along Piccadilly Street when they encountered Warburton at his front door. The children observed Warburton, who was completely naked from the waist down, and he made an inappropriate remark, either inviting them to come closer or to come inside, claiming he had money. Two of the children entered his home, which prompted immediate concern.

Following this, police were alerted to the situation. Officers responded swiftly to Warburton’s residence, where they found the front door slightly open. When they attempted to make contact, there was no response. Upon entering the property, the officers discovered Warburton lying on the floor in the front bedroom, still undressed from the waist down. He was instructed to get dressed and was subsequently arrested on the scene.

During sentencing, Judge Simon Newell emphasized the importance of intervention and rehabilitation. He expressed the belief that proper support from the probation service could significantly aid Warburton’s rehabilitation process. The judge stated that the order was designed not only to protect the public in the long term but also to give Warburton a final opportunity to address his behavior. He concluded by warning Warburton that this was his last chance to avoid further consequences.