KEVIN FAULKNER FROM THORNTON JAILED FOR GROOMING PLOT NEAR PRESTON GRASSHOPPERS

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Thornton community, Kevin Faulkner, a 55-year-old man from Saltash Road, Thornton, has been sentenced to 15 months in prison after attempting to meet a girl he believed was just 12 years old. The incident unfolded after Faulkner engaged in a series of online conversations with what he thought was a young girl, but in reality, he was communicating with an undercover police officer.

According to court proceedings at Preston Crown Court, the conversations between Faulkner and the individual he believed was a minor took place over several months, from March to August of the previous year. During these exchanges, explicit references to sexual matters were made, indicating a clear intent to pursue a sexual encounter with the supposed child.

The court heard that a meeting was scheduled to take place outside Preston Grasshoppers Rugby Union Club in August. Faulkner drove to the location, believing he was about to meet the girl, whom he thought was called Vicky. However, he became alarmed when he noticed what he thought might be police officers nearby, prompting him to leave the scene and head back home. He was subsequently arrested by law enforcement authorities.

During the sentencing, it was revealed that Faulkner had earlier admitted to attempting to meet a child after engaging in sexual grooming. Prosecutor Richard Bennett detailed the content of the chat room conversations, which included disturbing references to sexual topics. Court excerpts of the exchanges were read aloud, with Faulkner making comments such as, “I think you are starting to get interested in more grown-up things.”

Defence lawyer Joe Hart argued that Faulkner’s actions were influenced by his mental health issues, including depression. He explained that Faulkner had described in a psychiatric report that he found it difficult to communicate with others in real life and relied heavily on the internet as a form of social interaction. Hart emphasized that the communications appeared to be a refuge for Faulkner, who was described as lonely and socially isolated.

As part of his sentence, Faulkner is required to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for a period of ten years. Additionally, he was issued a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, aimed at restricting his future conduct and ensuring public safety. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat online grooming and protect vulnerable minors from predatory behavior.