Walter Chahwanda, former church leader, exploited TikTok and Snapchat to prey on minors aged 14–17 across multiple UK regions.

Pastor Walter Chahwanda, 34, of Plemonstall Court, Chester, has been sentenced to a total of 14 years—nine in prison and five on extended licence—after being found guilty of 17 sexual offences, including the sexual assault of a child under 14. The sentence was delivered at Liverpool Crown Court, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the danger he posed to vulnerable children.

Chahwanda previously served as a pastor in the Apostolic Faith Mission before founding his own church, Sound of Dominion, in Speke, Merseyside. The court heard that he used his position of trust and authority to manipulate and exploit young girls for his sexual gratification.

Investigators revealed that Chahwanda groomed his victims online, using social media platforms such as TikTok and Snapchat. He reportedly sent intimate videos of himself to children, creating a false sense of trust before committing the assaults. This method of predation highlights the increasing risks posed by social media to minors.

His criminal activity spanned several regions, including Manchester, South Yorkshire, the East Midlands, and Kent, demonstrating the premeditated and widespread nature of his offenses. Authorities emphasized the calculated way Chahwanda targeted multiple victims over time.

Liverpool Crown Court’s sentencing underscores the seriousness of grooming and sexual abuse offences, sending a strong message about the protection of young people. Chahwanda will serve nine years in prison, followed by five years on extended licence, ensuring he remains under supervision even after release.