DROITWICH MAN PHILIP GREENHOUSE SENTENCED FOR GROOMING AND SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING UNDERAGE GIRL

In March 2019, a man from Droitwich, Philip Greenhouse, aged 39 and residing in Priory Gardens, Union Lane, faced serious criminal charges related to online grooming and attempting to engage in sexual activity with a minor. The case was heard at Hereford Crown Court, where Greenhouse was found guilty of multiple offences, including attempting to meet a girl under the age of 16 and possession of cannabis.

According to court proceedings, Greenhouse had initiated contact with what he believed was the online profile of a young girl. Over a period of time, he exchanged numerous sexual messages, clearly indicating his intent to involve the minor in sexual activity. The communication was conducted via the internet, and Greenhouse’s actions demonstrated a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior.

Greenhouse made arrangements to meet the girl in person, planning to carry out the illicit encounter. However, when he arrived at Droitwich train station, he was unexpectedly confronted by members of a paedophile hunting team. These individuals, operating under the alias 'Internet Interceptors,' had set up a sting operation, posing online as children to catch predators like Greenhouse. They informed him that the girl he believed he was meeting did not exist and that he was speaking to an adult member of the team.

Following this confrontation, authorities were contacted, and Greenhouse was promptly arrested. An investigation into his electronic devices revealed further disturbing evidence: he had downloaded indecent images of children, adding to the severity of his criminal conduct.

As a result of his actions, Greenhouse was sentenced to be placed on the sex offenders register for a period of five years. The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement and community groups to combat online grooming and protect vulnerable minors from exploitation.