PAUL LOCKWOOD FROM KEIGHLEY SENTENCED FOR ONLINE CHILD SEX OFFENSES
In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Keighley, delivery driver Paul Lockwood, aged 53, was found guilty of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a minor through online means.The incident, which took place in February of the previous year, involved Lockwood mistakenly believing he was communicating with a 13-year-old girl, but in reality, he was interacting with an undercover police officer posing as a young girl named ‘Sky’.
According to court proceedings, prosecutor Alisha Kaye detailed how Lockwood initiated contact by asking ‘Sky’ what she was wearing and whether her leggings were tight.
His intent was clear as he requested photographs of her, specifically asking for images “the naughtier the better.” During the exchange, Lockwood also sent a disturbing image of his exposed penis to the undercover officer, further demonstrating his inappropriate intentions.
When ‘Sky’ did not respond with any photos, Lockwood expressed his frustration, stating that it was “a waste of time,” as reported by Miss Kaye.
Throughout the investigation, Lockwood remained silent when questioned by police officers about his actions.
He later pleaded guilty to charges of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, which included requesting indecent images and sending an indecent photo of himself.
It was revealed that Lockwood had a troubling criminal history, with seven previous convictions spanning 18 offences.
These included matters related to dishonesty and a past incident of indecent assault on a child when he was just 18 years old.
The court heard that over a period of four days, Lockwood persistently solicited images from ‘Sky’ and had sent a photo of his exposed penis, although he did not make any threats or offer any inducements during the exchanges.
During mitigation, Julian White acknowledged that the case met the criteria for custody but urged the court to consider a suspended sentence.
He emphasized that no actual child was involved in the incident and that Lockwood had not attempted to meet ‘Sky’ in person.
White also highlighted that Lockwood was employed as a delivery driver, had a stable address in Keighley, and was in a new relationship.
The probation officer provided insight into Lockwood’s attitude, stating that he was initially in denial about his offending but had since been more open and willing to engage with support services.
The officer noted that Lockwood was attempting to address his issues and showed some responsibility for his actions.
Judge Ahmed Nadim addressed the court, stating that Lockwood’s actions involved soliciting sexualized images from someone he believed to be a 13-year-old girl.
The judge criticized Lockwood for minimising his offending and failing to recognize that he had a sexual interest in young children that required intervention.
Despite this, the judge acknowledged Lockwood’s potential for rehabilitation and his ability to lead a responsible life in the community.
As a result, Lockwood was sentenced to 13 months in prison, suspended for two years.
He was also ordered to complete 35 days of rehabilitation activities with the probation service and perform 200 hours of unpaid work.
Additionally, a Sexual Harm Prevention Order was imposed for ten years, and Lockwood is required to sign the sex offender register for the same period.
