PAUL MEADEN FROM TWICKENHAM SENTENCED AFTER SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING TEENAGE GIRL NEAR BOURNEMOUTH

In February 2018, a distressing case unfolded involving a teenage girl who attempted to take her own life after believing she was pregnant by an older man. The girl, whose identity remains protected, was targeted by Paul Meaden following a chance encounter. The incident highlights the dangers of inappropriate relationships and the severe consequences faced by offenders.

Paul Meaden, aged 21 and residing on Hedley Road in Twickenham, appeared before Bournemouth Crown Court to face sentencing after admitting to multiple serious charges. The court was informed that Meaden engaged in sexual activity with a minor and also communicated sexually explicit messages with her, actions that are criminal and deeply concerning.

Prosecutor James Kellam detailed the harrowing events, revealing that the teenage girl had taken an overdose of prescribed medication in a desperate attempt to end her distress, fearing she was pregnant. Fortunately, the overdose did not result in any lasting harm, and she was discharged from the hospital the following day. Despite this traumatic episode, Meaden continued to contact her via Instagram, where the two exchanged explicit photographs, further exacerbating the case's severity.

When authorities arrested Meaden in Bournemouth, he claimed he was on his way to the police station to discuss “that problem,” implying some awareness of his misconduct. However, during police interviews, he refused to answer questions, responding only with “no comment.” The court noted the disturbing nature of the messages exchanged between Meaden and the girl, highlighting an “element of threat” present in their communications.

Judge Peter Crabtree OBE sentenced Meaden to 20 months in prison, suspended for two years. As part of his sentence, he is required to participate in a rehabilitation activity program and the Thames Valley Sex Offender Programme. Additionally, he will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order, aimed at protecting the community from further offenses.

This case underscores the importance of vigilance and the serious repercussions of exploiting minors, with the court emphasizing the need for offenders to be held accountable for their actions, especially when involving vulnerable individuals in the Twickenham area and beyond.