Paedophile put back behind bars

A paedophile who breached his Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and abused a teenage girl has been put back behind bars.

Aaron Paul Reece Whitwell had previously been jailed for sexual offences when he committed the new crimes between November 2022 and January 2023.

The 28-year-old had used social media, pretending to be a 17-year-old boy, to meet with the victim before subjecting her to the abuse.

He was arrested and claimed he was the victim of a conspiracy theory owing to him recently being released from prison.

But evidence said otherwise and he was charged with eight sexual offences.

Whitwell, of no fixed abode, appeared at Durham Crown Court today (March 6) where he was sentenced to a 12-year extended prison sentence.

Detective Constable James Horner, of South Durham CID, said: “Whitwell is a dangerous sexual predator who preyed upon a vulnerable young girl.

“I want to thank the victim and witnesses for coming forward and particularly the victim, for her bravery, strength and positivity throughout the case.”

If you suspect a child is suffering from abuse, please tell someone - call police on 101, or call 999 in an emergency.

You can also report online via our website at www.durham.police.uk/Report-It/101-Live-Chat