Counter-Terror Cop Busted in Undercover Child Grooming Sting
Detective Constable Francois Olwage, 52, from Stevenage, Hertfordshire, has been convicted after chatting up who he thought was a 13-year-old girl online. The catch? The “girl” was actually an undercover police officer.
Two Weeks of Sick Chat on Forum
Olwage spent two weeks exchanging explicit messages with the undercover officer, who used the username Smile Bear. They spoke on a chat forum before the detective suggested meeting in Basingstoke, Hampshire, claimed to be the girl’s hometown.
Arrested After Train Journey and McDonald’s Stop
The divorced father of three took the train to meet the supposed underage girl on 28 October. Police arrested him after he stopped at a McDonald’s, where they found condoms, lubricant, and erectile dysfunction tablets in his bag.
Denies Believing “Girl” Was Underage
At Winchester Crown Court, Olwage insisted he never thought Smile Bear was a child and believed it was an adult “playing out a fantasy.” However, he admitted improperly using his police powers “for sexual gratification”.
Prosecutor Peter Shaw revealed that Olwage was listed as “on duty working from home” on the day he was arrested. The judge ruled him not guilty of arranging or facilitating a child sex offence but found him guilty of attempted sexual communication with a child and grooming behaviour.
Olwage remains in custody and is set for sentencing on 27 April.
