HOWLEY SECURITY GUARD KEITH STRUTT SENTENCED FOR GROOMING CHILD IN CHESHIRE

In July 2018, a disturbing case unfolded involving Keith Strutt, a security guard from Howley, who was convicted of engaging in inappropriate and illegal communication with a minor. The incident came to light during a well-coordinated paedophile sting operation, which aimed to catch predators attempting to exploit children online.

Keith Strutt, aged 57 and residing on Derek Street in Howley, appeared before Warrington Magistrates' Court to face charges related to his online conduct. He subsequently pleaded guilty to the charges at that court last month. Following this, his sentencing took place at Liverpool Crown Court earlier this month, where the full extent of his actions was publicly acknowledged.

The court proceedings revealed that Strutt had deliberately contacted what he believed was a 13-year-old girl’s online profile. Over a series of messages, he expressed his desire to engage in sexual activities with the girl, making his intentions clear through a string of explicit and inappropriate messages. The communication was part of a calculated attempt to groom the minor for sexual exploitation.

In a further disturbing development, Strutt arranged to meet the girl at his workplace, where he openly stated his intention to have sex with her. However, the girl was not an actual minor but a member of the 'Hunting 4 Justice' team, a paedophile hunting organization that operates by posing as children online to catch predators. This group’s members often work undercover to identify and apprehend individuals attempting to exploit minors.

Police officers responded swiftly to reports of suspicious activity at Riverside Retail Park, where the incident was believed to have been planned. During the investigation, Strutt was arrested on suspicion of engaging in sexual communication with a child. The 'Hunting 4 Justice' team live-streamed the interaction on their Facebook page, providing crucial evidence for the case. All the evidence collected during the operation was subsequently handed over to detectives from Cheshire Police for further investigation.

Following his arrest, Strutt was taken into custody and faced the judicial process. The court sentenced him to ten months in prison, with an additional eight-week period of licence upon his release. Moreover, he was issued a sexual harm prevention order that will remain in effect for ten years. He was also ordered to register as a sex offender for the same duration, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions related to his conduct.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and community organizations to combat online grooming and protect vulnerable minors from exploitation. The actions of the 'Hunting 4 Justice' team played a pivotal role in bringing Strutt to justice, demonstrating the importance of vigilant online communities in safeguarding children from predators.