A number of men from Preston have been arrested and charged in connection with child sexual exploitation.
AdvertisementA 29 year old man from Preston was arrested and charged with rape, sexual assault, posessing indecent images and engaging in non-penetrative sex with a girl over 13 years old. He appeared at Preston Magistrates Court on Saturday.
The arrests took place as Lancashire Police launched a crackdown on child exploitation across the county.
Five Preston men and a teenage boy have also been arrested for posessing indecent images,
A 67 year old man has been arrested and bailed until April.
Four men aged 50, 47, 21 and 33 were also arrested but bailed until May.
And a 17 year old boy from Preston was arrested and bailed until May for posessing indecent images.
Detective Superintendent Sue Cawley, Head of Lancashire Constabulary’s Public Protection Unit said: “This week we have executed a number of warrants around the county which has resulted in the arrest of 22 people who we believe have been involved in various offences relating the exploitation and abuse of children.
“The operation, along with all the other multi-agency activities that have taken place this week, clearly demonstrate our ability and intention to tackle child sexual exploitation.
“I am confident that the awareness week has highlighted the work currently undertaken to tackle the issue and that our approach is a long term one with important work happening each and every day.
“Tackling child sexual exploitation is extremely important for the constabulary and we are committed to preventing child sexual abuse, supporting victims and bringing those responsible to justice.”
Police are encouraging anyone who has been, or knows someone who has been, sexually abused, groomed or exploited to come forward and contact police confident in the knowledge they will be dealt with sensitively and professionally.
If you are concerned about a young person you know, call Lancashire Police on 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.