MALCOLM TRAINER BUSTED IN LEEK FOR BREACHING COURT ORDER BY SETTING UP TIKTOK ACCOUNT

In June 2022, Malcolm Trainer, a 40-year-old resident of Leek, found himself back in court facing serious allegations related to his previous criminal record and ongoing court restrictions. Trainer, who is under an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) due to his 2015 conviction involving child sexual abuse images, was accused of violating the terms of his court-mandated restrictions by establishing a new TikTok account without informing the authorities.

Trainer’s breach of the SHPO was considered particularly serious because it involved multiple actions that demonstrated a disregard for the court’s orders. The court heard that he had deleted his internet browsing history from an iPhone, which was viewed as an attempt to conceal his online activities. When police officers requested access to his device, Trainer refused to provide a new iPhone or any other relevant information, further complicating his case.

During the proceedings, Trainer claimed that he believed his lifetime SHPO had expired, a misunderstanding that the court did not accept as a valid reason for his actions. His failure to comply with the court’s directives and his attempt to hide his online activity were seen as clear breaches of the order.

At Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, Judge Sally Hancox addressed Trainer directly, emphasizing the gravity of his breaches. She pointed out that in 2020, he had deleted internet history from his mobile phone, and despite being questioned by officers in 2022, he had refused to make a phone available when requested. His defensiveness and lack of cooperation during these encounters raised significant concerns.

Furthermore, Trainer’s decision to set up a TikTok account without notifying the authorities was viewed as a blatant violation of the court’s restrictions. The judge expressed her disapproval of his attitude, noting that the breaches occurred 18 months apart and highlighting the importance of compliance with court orders designed to protect the public.

As a result, Trainer was sentenced to a three-year community order, which includes a 30-day rehabilitation activity requirement aimed at addressing his behavior and preventing future breaches. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £200 in court costs. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which breaches of court orders, especially those involving online activity and potential risks to children, are treated in the judicial system.