Man jailed for child sex offences

Wednesday, April 30, 2025

A man has been jailed for sex offences against children in Lancashire.

John Heggie was convicted and sentenced earlier this month.

In 2022, the sexual offences, against two children, both of whom were under 13, were reported to us, and an investigation carried out.

Heggie, 63 (pictured), of Troutbeck Crescent, Blackpool, was arrested on suspicion of, and later charged with causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, sexual activity in the presence of a child and sexual assault on a child.

Following a trial at Preston Crown Court, Heggie was found guilty of the offences, and sentenced to nine years in prison. He was also given an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and ordered to sign the sex offenders register.

DC Tristan Farley said: “Heggie’s victims are children – some of the most vulnerable members of our society. He preyed on them and used them for his own perverted sexual gratification. He is a despicable man, and I welcome the custodial sentence handed down on him this month.

“The victims in this case have been incredibly brave throughout the whole process. I can only praise them for having the strength to come forward and talk to us. I hope that with Heggie behind bars, they can now begin to rebuild and move forward in their young lives.

“I want to send a message to anyone who may have been a victim of any sexual offence today: if you have been a victim of any sexual offence, please know that you will be listened to, your report will be investigated, and we will do everything we can to get you justice.”

If you have ever been a victim of a sexual offence, you can contact police on 101, or make an online report here: Report an Incident - Lancashire Constabulary - Report Online