LEIGH BOND'S SHOCKING ATTEMPT TO MEET TEENAGE GIRL IN BARROW LEADS TO SUSPENDED SENTENCE

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Barrow, Leigh Bond, a 34-year-old man, was brought before Preston Crown Court after attempting to initiate a meeting with a 13-year-old girl he had contacted via social media. The incident, which unfolded over several months, highlights the dangers posed by online predators and the importance of vigilance among parents and authorities alike.

According to court records, Bond first made contact with the young girl through Facebook Messenger, beginning with casual conversations. However, as the messages progressed, Bond's communications became increasingly inappropriate, culminating in his efforts to arrange a face-to-face meeting despite being fully aware of her age. The victim's mother, alarmed by the persistent messages, reported the incident to the police, prompting an investigation that would lead to Bond's arrest.

Between September 4 and November 1, Bond continued to send multiple messages to the girl, attempting to persuade her to meet him in person. The police responded swiftly, executing a search at Bond's residence on Redshaw Avenue. During the arrest, officers inquired if he possessed any mobile devices, to which Bond initially denied having any phones. However, an officer observed an iPhone resting on the sofa in the lounge and subsequently seized it as evidence.

Bond was charged with attempting to meet a minor for sexual purposes, a serious offence that underscores the risks associated with online interactions. At his hearing, he admitted to the charges, and the court sentenced him to nine months in prison, suspended for two years. Additionally, Bond was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid community work and was subjected to a series of restrictions designed to prevent further offending.

Among these measures was an indefinite restraining order prohibiting him from contacting the victim. He was also placed under a five-year sexual harm prevention order, which restricts his activities and access to minors. Furthermore, Bond was mandated to undertake 50 days of rehabilitation and attend a sexual offenders treatment programme, aimed at addressing underlying issues and preventing future offences.

Prior to the sentencing, Bond was found to have breached his bail conditions, leading South Cumbria Magistrates’ Court to revoke his bail and remand him in custody. This development occurred as part of the ongoing legal process, emphasizing the seriousness with which authorities are treating cases involving online predation and the protection of vulnerable minors.