Walter Chahwanda has been jailed after being found guilty of grooming and abusing teenage girls. He used social media and his position as a pastor to contact victims across several regions. The court heard that victims’ reports led to his conviction and sentencing.
An evangelical pastor, Walter Chahwanda, has been jailed after being found guilty of multiple offences involving the grooming and abuse of teenage girls.
Chahwanda, 34, of Plemonstall Court in Chester, was convicted of 17 offences involving girls aged between 14 and 17. The incidents took place between 2017 and 2020. The court also heard that he assaulted a child under the age of 14.
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He previously worked as a pastor in the Apostolic Faith Mission before starting his own church, Sound of Dominion, based in Speke, Merseyside. The court was told that he used his role within the church to build trust with young girls.
Liverpool Crown Court heard that he contacted victims through social media platforms, including TikTok and Snapchat. He sent inappropriate messages and videos as part of the offences.
The victims were from different parts of the country, including Manchester, South Yorkshire, the East Midlands and Kent. The court was told that his actions affected several young people over a number of years.
During sentencing, Judge David Swinnerton said Chahwanda had “deeply damaged” the lives of his victims. He added that the pastor had abused the trust linked to his position in the church.
When questioned by police, Chahwanda admitted to having inappropriate conversations on social media. However, he described the messages as “naughty” and claimed they were part of role play.
The court also heard that complaints had been raised with the church by several women. However, it was stated that the appropriate steps were not taken to protect young girls.
Aaron Smith, representing the Crown Prosecution Service, said Chahwanda had “abused the trust placed in him” to target young people. He added that the victims showed courage by coming forward, which led to the conviction.
Chahwanda was sentenced to nine years in prison and will serve an additional five years on extended licence following his release.
