Convicted Lancashire paedophile goes on the run to avoid prison

A Lancashire man convicted of child sex offences has gone on the run to avoid being sent to prison.
By Matthew Calderbank
Published 10th Aug 2021, 10:16 GMT
Updated 10th Aug 2021, 10:28 GMT
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Paul Bennett, also known as Paul Crea, 37, of King Street, Heywood, was due to appear at Preston Crown Court after being charged with engaging in sexual communication with a child.

But he failed to attend and was found guilty in his absence on Friday (August 6).

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Lancashire Police are now searching for him and the force is asking anyone who spots him to get in touch immediately.

Paul Bennett, also known as Paul Crea, 37, of King Street, Heywood, was due to appear at Preston Crown Court for an offence of engaging in sexual communication with a child. He was found guilty in his absence on Friday (August 6)Paul Bennett, also known as Paul Crea, 37, of King Street, Heywood, was due to appear at Preston Crown Court for an offence of engaging in sexual communication with a child. He was found guilty in his absence on Friday (August 6)
Paul Bennett, also known as Paul Crea, 37, of King Street, Heywood, was due to appear at Preston Crown Court for an offence of engaging in sexual communication with a child. He was found guilty in his absence on Friday (August 6)

Bennett has links to Todmorden, West Yorkshire and Rochdale and is described as tall with a slim build and dark-coloured hair.

PC Dan Healey, of Lancashire Police, said: "We are appealing for information to find wanted man Paul Bennett after he failed to appear at court.

"Bennett knows he is wanted after failing to appear at court and is actively evading arrest.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"We believe someone will know where he is. If you can help, please come forward immediately."

Anyone with information can call 101 or email [email protected]. In an emergency, you should always call 999.

Support us and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day.

With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.