Ex-Salvation Army Sergeant Jailed for 10 Years Over Girl Grooming Plot
Roy Williams, 53, a former Salvation Army Sergeant from Newport, Isle of Wight, has been locked up for 10 years after flying across the Atlantic to meet a 13-year-old girl for sex. The disgraced volunteer befriended the youngster online and spent months grooming her through texts and messages before making his move in June.
Grooming Scheme Uncovered
Williams admitted in court that he tried to persuade the teenager to take part in acts amounting to aggravated statutory rape. His plan to meet her face-to-face was foiled when the girl’s mum found suspicious messages on her phone and tipped off the authorities.
Salvation Army Cuts Ties
Once the charges surfaced in August last year, the Salvation Army swiftly revoked Williams’ membership. In March, he finally pleaded guilty and this week was sentenced to a decade behind bars, followed by 10 years on probation.
Post-Release Orders and Deportation Loom
Upon release, Williams is expected to be deported back to the UK and will be legally obliged to sign the Sex Offenders Register, ensuring he faces ongoing supervision for years to come.
