Man Jailed for Grooming Teen Girls on Social Media
A 36-year-old man from Worthing, Jack Laingchild, has been handed a four-year prison sentence after grooming two underage girls online. The disturbing offences began in summer 2018 when Laingchild contacted the girls, aged just 14 and 15 at the time, via multiple social media platforms.
From Online Messages to Illegal Meetings
Laingchild’s messages quickly turned explicit. He sent sexual texts and shared indecent images of himself. He then arranged face-to-face meetings where he supplied the girls with cannabis and engaged in sexual activity inside his car.
Luckily, the girls bravely told their parents about the encounters, triggering a police probe that led to Laingchild’s arrest.
Court Convicts Laingchild of Sexual Offences
The chilling case was heard at Lewes Crown Court, where on January 17, 2024, Laingchild was convicted of one count of sexual activity with a child and two counts of sexual communication with children. A rape charge was acknowledged but not pursued in court.
On March 8, the judge sentenced Laingchild to four years behind bars. He must also register as a sex offender and comply with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order to keep him away from children.
Police Praise Victims’ Courage
“Jack Laingchild showed a calculated plan to groom his victims, isolate them with the offer of illegal drugs, and exploit them for his sexual gratification,” said Detective Constable Katie Brixey.
“Thankfully, these girls had the courage to tell their parents, who contacted the police. Thanks to their bravery, Laingchild has been brought to justice and can no longer harm other young people.”
This case highlights the dangers lurking in online chat and underlines the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable youngsters from predators.
