KEITH WHITWORTH'S SHOCKING FLASHER SPREE IN BURNESTON AND NORTH YORKSHIRE

In October 2014, a disturbing series of indecent exposure incidents perpetrated by Keith Whitworth has left a trail of fear and trauma among young victims and their families across multiple locations, including Burneston, Catterick Village, Bedale, Darlington, and Newton Aycliffe. The case has garnered significant media attention as authorities work tirelessly to apprehend the suspect and bring him to justice.

Whitworth, aged 37 and residing in Burneston near Bedale, became the focus of a police investigation following a string of alarming incidents that spanned over the summer months. The first known occurrence took place in Catterick Village and Bedale, where he was observed exposing himself in public. The pattern of his behavior continued into Darlington and Newton Aycliffe, culminating in a particularly disturbing incident on August 15 in Darlington involving a 12-year-old girl. This incident prompted a police alert and a widespread search for the suspect.

Authorities issued a public warning through The Northern Echo newspaper, describing the suspect as the driver of a black Volkswagen Polo. The police investigation was aided significantly by CCTV footage, which captured a clear image of the vehicle’s license plate. This evidence led to the swift arrest of Keith Whitworth, who was identified as the individual responsible for the series of indecent exposures.

During police interviews, Whitworth admitted to another exposure offense that occurred in Newton Aycliffe in January. He also confessed that his inappropriate activities had been ongoing for approximately three years, indicating a troubling pattern of behavior. Despite his wheelchair use, which was noted during the court proceedings, Whitworth was scheduled to be sentenced at Teesside Crown Court. However, Judge Michael Taylor expressed concern about how Whitworth would cope within the prison system and how the authorities would manage his disabilities, leading to a delay in sentencing.

Prosecutor Sue Jacobs detailed the impact of Whitworth’s actions on his young victims. She explained that the children who witnessed Whitworth flashing and performing sexual acts in public were left terrified. One 12-year-old girl provided an emotional impact statement, revealing that she now struggles with sleep and fears that Whitworth might try to break into her home whenever she hears noises. She stated, “I want him to know it has ruined my life... my confidence has crumbled... I used to love playing out. I will never be the same girl again.”

Her mother also spoke passionately in court, describing how her once “kind, sensitive and polite” child has become withdrawn, anxious, and fearful. She expressed her anger and sorrow, saying, “I want him to know that as a result of him getting his little kicks, he has changed her life for the worse.” Another mother echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the emotional toll on her family and the damage inflicted upon the children involved.

Keith Whitworth, who pleaded guilty to two charges of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child and four counts of exposure, was remanded in custody until October 27. His defense barrister, Tom Mitchell, argued that if Whitworth were to receive a non-custodial sentence, it should be conditional upon him receiving the maximum possible treatment for his condition. The court’s decision on sentencing remains pending, but the case highlights the serious nature of his offenses and the ongoing concern for the safety and well-being of the community in Burneston and surrounding areas.