High-Risk Child Rapist Hunted: Police Seek Help to Locate Convicted Sex Offender
Authorities are actively searching for Stephen Pennington, a convicted child rapist who has breached his licence conditions and been recalled to prison. The 35-year-old, described as a high-risk sex offender, poses a significant threat to children and women, according to Lancashire Constabulary.
Pennington was initially sentenced in 2009 for the heinous crime of child rape. However, he was jailed again last year for violating a sexual harm prevention order after entering into a new relationship with a woman between September and December 2021, and making contact with her children. While there is no evidence to suggest that he harmed or abused the children, his actions constitute a clear breach of his order.
During this time, Pennington assumed the false identity of Stephen Johnson, deceiving the woman into maintaining a relationship with him and enabling him to be in close proximity to her family. Additionally, he failed to comply with the notification requirements outlined in the sex offenders database.
Pennington, who is described as white, slim, and approximately 6 feet tall, has short balding dark brown hair. He is known to have connections to Blackburn, Blackpool, and Wigan.
In a statement, Detective Constable Stewart Marshall of the Mosovo (Management of Sexual or Violent Offenders) Team at West Division appealed to the public for assistance in locating Pennington. Highlighting the potential danger he poses to both children and women, Marshall urged anyone who sees him or has information about his whereabouts to immediately contact the authorities by dialing 999.
Authorities are treating Pennington’s case with utmost urgency due to the heightened risks associated with his history of sexual offenses. Efforts to locate and apprehend him are being significantly intensified, with the intention of ensuring the safety and well-being of potential victims. The public’s cooperation and vigilance are vital in this endeavor.
The search for Stephen Pennington serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of monitoring and managing high-risk sex offenders. By actively seeking the public’s support, law enforcement agencies aim to prevent further harm and protect vulnerable individuals from potential dangers.
