Arrest of missing rapist is confirmed

Police in Greater Manchester issued an appeal over the whereabouts of Stephen Pennington, 30, who was said to have failed to keep them informed of his whereabouts.

Pennington, who used to live in Shevington, was jailed for three years in 2009 after he was convicted of having sex with a 12-year-old girl.

Police confirmed early yesterday that he had been arrested and charged with a breach of sex offender notification requirements.

Court officials in Blackpool have confirmed that his case has now been transferred to Preston Crown Court, where he will appear before a judge on August 1.

No plea was indicated by Pennington, now of Coronation Street, Blackpool, and he was remanded in custody.