SAM ROURKE CAUGHT IN FELTHAM TRYING TO GROOM 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL ONLINE

In September 2016, a disturbing case unfolded involving Sam Rourke, a young man from Feltham, Middlesex, who was caught attempting to groom a minor through online communications. The incident was brought to light when an undercover police officer, posing as a 12-year-old girl, engaged in chat conversations with Rourke, revealing a troubling pattern of behavior.

During the court proceedings at Preston Crown Court in Lancashire, it was revealed that Rourke, aged 23 at the time, led what was described as 'two lives.' On one hand, he was recognized as a respectable churchgoer and a Christian youth worker dedicated to assisting children with learning difficulties. On the other hand, he maintained a 'fantasy life' that involved engaging in inappropriate and sexualized conversations with young girls online. Rourke was visibly emotional during sentencing, sobbing as he was handed a 16-month prison sentence, which was suspended for two years.

The prosecution, led by Francis McEntee, outlined the details of the online interactions. He explained that Rourke believed he was communicating with a 12 or 13-year-old girl, but in reality, he was speaking with an undercover officer operating under the pseudonyms 'Kayla' and 'Lozzer.' The court heard that Rourke had used a private chat facility on the platform, where he initially made contact with 'Kayla' on January 19 at approximately 1:10 pm. The conversation began with casual questions such as 'How are you?' and quickly escalated to inquiries about her age.

Rourke falsely claimed to be 19 years old, despite the platform's requirement that users specify their age between 12 and 19. He signed himself as being 19 and continued to engage with the officer, who described herself as being 12 years old and living in the Cadley area of Preston. The interactions quickly turned inappropriate, with Rourke asking for a photograph and complimenting her by saying she was 'super cute.' He also expressed a desire to visit her at her home after she mentioned she was alone, but she indicated her mother was expected to return soon.

Further conversations revealed that Rourke often worked in Preston, and he suggested they could meet up, go to a park, and get some food. He also inquired about her having a boyfriend, using this as a pretext to offer her lessons in kissing and to instruct her on sexual acts. The court heard that he even suggested she perform a sexual act on herself, providing instructions during their chat.

When Rourke was arrested, he expressed remorse, stating, 'I need help – I’ve been really stupid.' It was also disclosed that he was involved with St John’s Church in Leyland, Lancashire, and was associated with the global Elevation Church movement. During the court appearance, he was accompanied by family members and a church minister.

Judge Woolman delivered the sentence, emphasizing the gravity of the offense. He stated, 'Fortunately it wasn’t a real person at the end. If it had been, I would have no option but to imprison you immediately.' The judge acknowledged Rourke’s seemingly dual life, noting that he came from a good family and was a devout, God-fearing individual. However, the judge condemned his actions as unlawful and reprehensible, warning that his behavior was a serious breach of trust and morality, despite his otherwise respectable exterior.