In 2019, the Offender Database reported that Jake Wharton, then 25, of Northam Close, Eye, near Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, was jailed for more than four years after getting a 14-year-old girl pregnant. Wharton, a former worker at HMP Peterborough, appeared at Cambridge Crown Court where he was sentenced for “vile” and “vicious” sexual offences against a child.
The investigation by Cambridgeshire Constabulary revealed that Wharton “callously” engaged in sexual activity with the girl on a regular basis. These “horrendous” incidents took place both at his home and in his car. Furthermore, Wharton “viciously” took photographs of the victim in a “state of undress.” The court heard that the girl later gave birth to a child as a result of the “serious” abuse.
“Grave Error of Judgement” and Court Denial
Judge David Farrell QC emphasised that Wharton had “dishonestly” ignored warnings that the girl had a crush on him, instead allowing a “vile” relationship to form. The prosecution reported that Wharton had “taken advantage” of the victim’s vulnerability.
In mitigation, his representative claimed Wharton wished he could “turn back time” and described his actions as a “grave error of judgment.” The court also heard that Wharton, who worked within the prison system until January 2018, was “scared” to experience life on the “other side” of the bars.
Sentence and Lifelong Restrictions
For his “serious” crimes, Wharton was jailed for four years and eight months. He had previously pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual activity with a child under the age of 16.
The judge also imposed several “vicious” restrictions to protect the survivor and the infant:
- A Restraining Order prevents any contact with the girl and the child.
- A Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) to monitor his future behaviour.
- Mandatory registration on the Sex Offenders Register.
As a result of his conviction, Jake Wharton is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Cambridgeshire Constabulary. This ensures his movements in Eye, Peterborough, and the wider Cambridgeshire area are strictly monitored. Any attempt to breach his restraining order or engage in further “vile” conduct will result in his immediate arrest and return to prison.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.