On Friday, 11 August 2023, Greater Manchester Police were informed that Matthew Lawrence Trafford Paedophile was engaged in a sexual connection with a 15-year-old minor.
At that time, Matthew Lawrence was a personal trainer at a gym and had formed a friendship with the child by providing her with training and assistance in food and nutrition. The gym manager expressed worry that the victim was under 16, contrary to the club’s membership policy, and advised Matthew Lawrence to revoke her membership. Lawrence said, ‘Do not prohibit her, in case she reports to the police.’
In previous discussions, Matthew Lawrence expressed a preference for dating younger women due to his appreciation for their ‘innocence.’ He had also claimed to another gym member that he had been sharing explicit photographs with the victim.
The gym staff expressed alarm regarding Matthew Lawrence’s actions, fearing he had groomed the female, and appropriately reported the incident to the authorities.
Matthew Lawrence was listed as wanted and apprehended by GMP officers at London Airport on September 1, 2023. This rapid apprehension precluded him from commencing employment as a personal trainer on a cruise ship.
Investigators located other witnesses who reported being with Lawrence when he discovered that the victim was merely 15 years old. Additional evidence was discovered on his mobile device, including text exchanges between Matthew Lawrence and his colleagues, which demonstrated his awareness that the victim was a minor. Despite their admonitions to cease communication with her, he persisted.
In August 2023, the victim courageously disclosed to her mother that Matthew Lawrence had attempted to kiss her and had physically compelled her to engage in sexual actions with him.
During an interview with specially trained cops, the victim said that Matthew Lawrence had taken her to the theatre as a reward for her rigorous gym training, prior to sexually abusing her in his locked vehicle.
An review of phone records revealed that within a month, there were more than 3,000 conversations and texts exchanged between Lawrence and the victim. Numerous items were sexually graphic, and there was also proof that Lawrence purchased her multiple gifts during that time.
He pleaded guilty to sexual communication with a child, and two counts of sexual activity with a child. Today (Tuesday 28 January) Matthew Lawrence (30/01/1982) of Mount Drive, Trafford, appeared at Minshull Crown Court where he was sentenced to three years and nine months in jail. He is also subject to an indefinite restraining order and sexual notification order, and a 10 year sexual harm prevention order.
Detective Constable Amy Brookes, from our Trafford Complex Safeguarding Hub, said: “Matthew Lawrence was warned by acquaintances on several occasions about talking to an underage girl, yet he continued to groom the young victim and sexually assault her. He lied throughout the interview process to try and minimise his actions, so we welcome this sentence today.
“His deplorable behaviour had a huge impact on the young victim, and she has shown such bravery in speaking to us. I hope that she feels some reassurance knowing this man is now behind bars, and our partner agencies will continue to support her moving forward, giving her the care and support she needs.
“We know that coming forward to the police isn’t always easy, and we are working tirelessly to improve the trust and confidence that the public and victims and survivors have in us. I hope from this investigation, anyone who has been a victim of crime, or has experienced abuse or exploitation knows that whenever they are ready to come forward, we will support them.
“We have specialist officers across the force, and we work closely with several partner agencies, who will support you and ensure you get the help and care you need.”
If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.
- Saint Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.
- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email h- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.
f you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 101 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.