Houghton Regis man jailed for grooming and sexually abusing teenage girl

Aaron Sarwar, aged 28, and of Harrington Heights, Houghton Regis, was sentenced at Luton Crown Court today (September 4) after being convicted of a number of child sexual offences.

Sarwar contacted the victim on Snapchat and falsely told her he was an 18-year-old gay man who did not have many friends.

After grooming her for weeks, he met the girl and sexually abused her on several occasions.

He was convicted of five counts of sexual activity with a child, three counts of penetrative sexual activity with a child and a number of offences relating to indecent images, and was sentenced to a total of nine years in prison.

Detective Sergeant Sabrina D’Amelio, from Bedfordshire Police, said: “We will always concentrate on protecting the most vulnerable members of our community and the sentence Sarwar received reflects the appalling nature of his crimes.

“Throughout this investigation we have been focused on ensuring this dangerous man would be prevented from further offending while supporting the wellbeing of the victim and her family.

“I hope the sentence reassures the community that we will always pursue those who pose a risk to women and girls and ensure they are brought before the courts.

“Child sexual abuse is an appalling crime, and it is never too late to report it. By doing so you could help us put these dangerous perpetrators in prison, while potentially protecting further victims.”

Bedfordshire Police said reports of sexual abuse, including non-recent offences, can be made by calling 101 or through its website.