A shocking grooming scare shook Crawley, Sussex, when a man posing as a cop targeted a 14-year-old schoolgirl last October. The case highlights urgent gaps in child protection and the need for tougher safeguarding measures.
Fake Cop Forces Teen Into Search
Young, dressed in a yellow hi-vis jacket, approached the teenager, flashing a badge that looked official. He tricked her into a ‘stop-and-search,’ rifling through her bag, coat, and blazer before letting her go. The terrified girl immediately told her mum, who reported the creepy encounter to police.
Quick Thinking Leads to Arrest
The very next day, mum and daughter spotted Young again—and snapped clear photos of him on his bike. Not long after, Young crashed into a car and was seen dumping suspicious items: LED lights, latex gloves, lubricant, and condoms. Police found these plus a spray can, handcuffs, a key, a stab vest, and the hi-vis jacket at his workplace.
Guilty Verdict Brings Some Justice
Young pleaded guilty to kidnapping and breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. At Lewes Crown Court on 23 March, he was convicted of intent to commit a sexual offence.
The Crown Prosecution Service praised the young victim’s bravery and said the verdict should bring her and her family some comfort.
