Sex Predator Busted with Toys and Sweets for Young Victims
A vile sex offender caught with bags of toys and sweets intended to lure young girls has been jailed for six years. Martin Freeman, 51, from Ashford, was nabbed before he could carry out his twisted plan to abuse two little girls.
Coaxed Online by Undercover Cop
Freeman struck up an explicit chat online in July with a supposed man called Tom, who claimed to have two nieces aged three and seven. The pair arranged to meet in an Ashford car park on August 1, where Freeman planned to carry out his sick attack.
Gifts as Bait – Unicorn Toy and Sweets Found
Police stopped Freeman before he could meet the girls. A search of his car revealed a bag with a unicorn soft toy, hair accessories, and sweets – gifts he intended to use to win their trust.
During questioning, Freeman admitted he was set on having sexual contact with the children and brought the presents as part of his grooming tactic.
Police Praise Undercover Officer for Foiling Abuse
The supposed Tom was actually an undercover officer hunting dangerous paedophiles. Detective Sergeant Rob Grieve said:
“Freeman is a danger to children and presented a real risk to the community. Disturbingly, he brought gifts to gain the children’s trust. Thankfully, our undercover officer was able to identify and help us arrest him.”
Freeman pleaded guilty at his first court hearing and has been remanded in custody since August. He must sign the sex offenders register on release.
