A PAEDOPHILE from Sonning who groomed his victims on social media was convicted on Wednesday (23).
Nicholas Faithfull, 20, of Glebe Gardens, was found guilty of seven charges of of an offender over 18 years engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13-15, and one count of an offender over 18 years engaging in non penetrative sexual activity with a girl aged 13-15.
At the start of the trial at Reading Crown Court, Faithfull pleaded guilty to one count of causing or inciting sexual activity with a child.
Faithfull was arrested on January 15, 2015 before being charged on June 1, 2015. The charges relate to offences involving five victims carried out between January 1 2014 and June 1 2015.
Senior Investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Bosley of Force CID in Berkshire, said: “Faithful took advantage of young girls, grooming them through social media before arranging to meet them and commit these crimes.
“I hope that today’s outcome will give the victims some comfort and enable them to rebuild their lives and move forward.
“I would ask anyone who believes they have been the victim of a sexual offence to make contact with the police who can offer specialised support throughout the criminal justice process.
“The easiest way to contact police is by calling 101, or if you would prefer to initially talk to someone in person then you can do this at your nearest police station.
“If you do not want to speak directly to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Faithfull will be sentenced on April 22.