Aqueel Hussain

Aqueel Hussain, 33, formerly of Irene Place in Blackburn and now of no fixed address, was sentenced to 15 years in prison with a 12-month extended licence period for the rape of a 12-year-old girl whom he groomed online via Snapchat. The case, heard in a Lancashire court in October 2025, underscores the perils of social media exploitation in child sex offences.

Lancashire Police investigations revealed that Hussain targeted the young victim through the Snapchat platform, building a deceptive relationship to gain her trust before committing the assault. The grooming process involved manipulative communications that isolated the child and led to the sexual offence. Following his conviction, Hussain was subjected to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and required to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life, measures aimed at preventing future harm.

• Grooming of a 12-year-old girl on Snapchat
• Rape of the minor
• Imposition of indefinite SHPO and lifelong sex offender registration

The sentencing in October 2025 was a result of thorough evidence gathering by Lancashire Police, including digital forensics from Hussain's devices and witness statements. The judge emphasised the profound impact on the victim's life, stating in court, 'This was a calculated and predatory attack on a vulnerable child, warranting the maximum protection for the public.' Local media, such as the Blackpool Gazette, reported the case as part of broader coverage on jailed criminals in Lancashire, highlighting the force's role in tackling sexual exploitation.

Hussain's prior residence in Blackburn places the offences within the local community context, though specific dates of the incidents remain undisclosed in public reports. This conviction adds to ongoing efforts by authorities to educate on online safety and prosecute those who exploit children digitally.