Jailed for harassing young boys (From Warrington Guardian)

Jailed for harassing young boys

A PREDATOR who preyed on young boys - known as Purple Aki - is beginning a six year jail sentence.

Detectives launched a painstaking investigation, codenamed Operation Ice, to ensnare Akinwale Arobieke, aged 42, who persistently harassed young boys.

Last week he was sentenced at Preston Crown Court after pleading guilty to 15 charges of harassment and one of intimidating a witness.

While the bulk of his offending was carried out in St Helens, he is a notorious figure in the Widnes and Runcorn area.

Warnings about Purple Aki have been common currency in playgrounds across the region for many years.

His tactics included approaching young boys at sports clubs, gyms and colleges, and asking to feel their muscles.

Det Supt Mike Dale praised the resolve of witnesses, who were determined to see Arobieke face justice.

He said Arobieke had been "persistent in his pursuit and harassment of young men".

In court Arobieke accepted his conduct could provoke fear but denied any sexual gratification and said he believed he had a genuine friendship with the youngsters.

Restraining orders were issued by sentencing judge Edward Slinger, banning him from contacting any of the boys involved in the case.