LIAM GRIFFIN FROM CHORLEY SENTENCED AFTER ONLINE PAEDOPHILE HUNTERS EXPOSE HIM

In a case that has drawn significant attention in Chorley, Liam Griffin, a 20-year-old resident of Stratford Road, was recently sentenced after being caught in an online sting operation conducted by a self-styled paedophile hunters group. The incident unfolded when Griffin engaged in a conversation with an individual he believed to be a 13-year-old girl, but who was actually an adult posing as a minor as part of an undercover operation.

On February 4, Griffin initiated contact with what he thought was a young girl, and during their online exchange, he made explicit requests for photographs of her naked breasts. Some images were indeed sent to him, which further implicated him in the case. Griffin later admitted to attempting to engage in sexual activity with a child, acknowledging the nature of their conversation and his intentions.

He also confessed to a separate charge of attempting to communicate sexually with a minor through online messaging. During police interviews, Griffin revealed that although the girl had initially provided different ages, he eventually believed her to be 13. It was later revealed that the messages he exchanged were with adults who were part of a paedophile hunting network, not actual minors.

Griffin’s background was also discussed during the proceedings, with the court noting that he suffers from Asperger’s syndrome and learning difficulties. These factors were considered during sentencing, which took place at Preston Crown Court.

Recorder Wright QC handed down a sentence that included a two-year community order, which requires Griffin to adhere to a curfew and participate in ten rehabilitation activity days. Additionally, Griffin was issued a five-year sexual harm prevention order, restricting his future conduct, and was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £90.

Prior to the sentencing, a hearing at the magistrates’ court provided further details. It was revealed that Griffin’s interactions with the supposed 13-year-old girl were part of a broader online exchange, which he admitted to during police interviews. Despite the girl providing different ages at various points, Griffin believed her to be 13, a belief that was ultimately false.

His defence lawyer, Laura Walmsley, argued that Griffin’s interactions were juvenile and unintentional, stating that the ‘pseudo person’ appeared in the ‘people you may know’ section of Facebook, and he had not actively sought out a minor. She acknowledged that the conversation, which was described as juvenile, did cross into criminal territory, but emphasized that Griffin did not deliberately target a child.

Overall, the case highlights the dangers of online interactions and the importance of vigilance, especially when it involves vulnerable individuals. Griffin’s actions have led to a significant legal response, reflecting the seriousness with which such offences are treated in the UK.