FLEETWOOD MAN MATTHEW CLIFTON SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING YOUNG GIRLS ON INTERNET

In February 2014, a disturbing case emerged involving Matthew Clifton, a man from Fleetwood, who engaged in illegal and highly inappropriate online activities involving minors. Clifton, aged 20 and residing on Hodder Avenue in Fleetwood, was found guilty of multiple charges related to his exploitation of two young girls aged 13 and 14 through social media platforms, specifically Facebook.

According to court proceedings, Clifton used a webcam to perform sexual acts in the presence of the girls during online interactions. He carried out these acts on two separate occasions, and on a third occasion, he convinced a 13-year-old girl to touch him under his clothing after meeting her in person in Bispham. The court heard that Clifton’s actions were not limited to online conduct; he also attempted to establish romantic relationships with the girls, despite warnings from their families and law enforcement authorities.

Prosecutor Jeremy Grout-Smith detailed that the 14-year-old girl initially showed some affection towards Clifton, giving him a peck on the cheek. Their relationship progressed to the point where they met in a local park, where they shared hugs and kisses. The girl later expressed her reluctance to engage in any sexual activity. Her father, concerned about her interactions with Clifton, issued warnings to him directly. Despite these warnings, Clifton continued to pursue contact, and the girl was eventually sent to stay with a relative in another town. Nevertheless, the communication persisted through Facebook, where Clifton sent her a photograph of himself in a bra.

Further disturbing evidence revealed that Clifton showed himself naked and performed a sex act over the internet during these online encounters. At one point, a relative of the girl walked in on some of these activities, witnessing the inappropriate behavior firsthand. The second girl, aged 13, also connected with Clifton via Facebook. He exposed himself to her on camera, further demonstrating his predatory behavior.

During the court hearing, Clifton’s defense attorney, Janet Ironfield, argued that her client suffers from personality disorders, which she claimed contributed to his actions. However, Judge Pamela Badley was clear in her judgment, stating, “Even though you were not forcing any of them, that doesn’t mean it is right.”

As a result of his convictions, Clifton was sentenced to a total of three years and four months in youth custody. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender indefinitely and was placed under a sexual offences prevention order, ensuring strict monitoring of his activities moving forward. The case highlights the dangers of online grooming and exploitation, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and protective measures for vulnerable minors in the digital age.