It was one of the most shocking cases of recent years, and Kayleigh Haywood’s harrowing murder is serving as a warning to children everywhere.
Police created a five-minute film recreating 15-year-old Kayleigh's experience, after she was groomed online and then murdered by predator Luke Harlow.
And the film, which is set to be rolled out online in January, is already saving lives.
Indeed, after being shown to some 18,000 children in Kayleigh’s native Leicestershire, ‘Kayleigh’s Love Story’ is said to have encouraged some 20 kids to come forward and report their own experiences of online grooming.
A police spokesperson told the Mirror: “We want to stop this activity at first contact and encourage children to report it to the police or a trusted adult.”
“It is evident from the 20 disclosures we’ve already received, the film is having this impact and young people who have been targeted by groomers are coming forward to tell us,” the rep added.
Kayleigh’s tragic story began last November, when she started chatting with strangers online. Luke Harlow, 28, then extended an invitation over to his house, which Kayleigh accepted.
Shortly after entering the house, Kayleigh was sexually assaulted by Harlow and a neighbour, Stephen Beadman. She was then murdered, and her body was later discovered in nearby woodland.
Kayleigh’s family and the police have shared the tragic story far and wide, as a warning to children and young people to be vigilant and wary when it comes to connecting with people online.
The Haywood family have also launched a campaign calling for a law preventing under-16s from setting up accounts on social media.
The Haywood family continue to be in our thoughts. It must be so comforting to them, knowing that Kayleigh’s legacy is making a positive difference.
