PENWORTHAM MAN STEPHEN TWYFORD CAUGHT AT BLACKPOOL NORTH STATION BY PAEDOPHILE HUNTERS

In a significant operation carried out in February 2018, a man from Penwortham named Stephen Twyford was apprehended at Blackpool North Railway Station after engaging in a disturbing online conversation with someone he believed to be a 12-year-old girl. The incident unfolded when Twyford, a 60-year-old bachelor residing at Alderfield, Penwortham, Preston, initiated contact via social media, discussing explicit sexual acts and expressing a desire to meet the young girl in person.

Unbeknownst to him, the individual he was communicating with was not a minor but a member of a vigilant paedophile hunting group called Action for Kids North West. The group had set up a sting operation to catch individuals attempting to groom minors. When Twyford arrived at Blackpool North Railway Station, he was met by members of the group who confronted him immediately. The group recorded his confession on body-worn cameras, footage they later announced they intended to broadcast live on Facebook.

During the confrontation, Twyford admitted to sending messages to the supposed 12-year-old girl, describing his intentions and expressing remorse for his actions, calling the situation 'disgusting.' The group’s members detained him until police arrived. Twyford’s background includes previous convictions for indecent assault, including an assault on a girl under 14 and two other incidents involving females over 16. These prior convictions underscored concerns about his potential risk to the community.

Following his arrest, Twyford was brought before Blackpool magistrates, who refused him bail due to the seriousness of the charges and his criminal history. He was remanded in custody to await sentencing at Preston Crown Court scheduled for March 14. Prosecutor Pam Smith highlighted that Twyford’s online communications began earlier this month, with him discussing various sexual acts and arranging to meet the girl at the station. The fact that the individual was an adult member of a paedophile hunting group was a crucial element in the case.

The prosecution emphasized the potential danger Twyford posed, especially considering the footage of his confession, which the group planned to share publicly. They requested that he remain in custody for his own safety and to prevent any further offences, citing concerns that he might reoffend if released. The case underscores ongoing efforts by community groups and law enforcement to combat online grooming and protect vulnerable minors from exploitation.