Scott Kirkham

A paedophile from Audenshaw, Greater Manchester, has been jailed for 10 years following a series of grooming and sexual assaults on teenage girls. Scott Kirkham, who operated under fake online profiles, targeted vulnerable young females through social media platforms, building trust before meeting them in person to carry out assaults.

The case came to light after reports from the victims, prompting an investigation by Greater Manchester Police. Evidence gathered included digital communications and witness statements that detailed Kirkham's manipulative tactics. During the trial at Manchester Crown Court, prosecutors highlighted the premeditated nature of the offences, with Kirkham using deception to exploit the girls' naivety.

• Kirkham created multiple false identities on social media to initiate contact.
• He groomed at least three teenage girls over a period of several months.
• Sexual assaults occurred in various locations across Tameside.

The judge described Kirkham's actions as 'predatory and calculated', emphasising the long-term impact on the victims. Sentencing occurred in December 2025, with Kirkham also placed on the sex offenders' register for life. Greater Manchester Police commended the bravery of the victims in coming forward, stating that such cases underscore the importance of online safety education.