Repeat Offender Busted in Online Child Sex Sting
Daniel Thomas, 33, from Westbury, has been locked up after a joint operation by Wiltshire Police and the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU).
Sick Online Chats with Undercover Officer
Between May 4 and June 27, Thomas – a registered sex offender – messaged a teen on social media. Little did he know, the “teen” was a highly trained undercover cop.
Thomas quickly turned the chat sexual. Police arrested him on June 28, accusing him of:
- Engaging in sexual communications with a child
- Causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity
- Causing a child to watch a sexual act
- Breaching his sexual harm prevention order (SHPO)
He was charged and remanded in custody.
Judge Slams Thomas; Hands Down Tough Sentence
On Wednesday at Salisbury Crown Court, Thomas was sentenced to four years and four months behind bars. On top of that, he faces three years on extended licence.
“Thomas is a repeat offender who has persistently targeted children and attempted to engage them in sexual activity,” said PC Whittaker from the Management of Sexual or Violent Offenders (MOSOVO) unit.
“By closely managing his SHPO, we monitored his behaviour and used a decoy to catch him red-handed. This prosecution helps keep children safe.”
Detective Inspector David Wells of SWROCU’s Online Investigations Team added: “Thomas’s repeated attempts to exploit young children online show the danger he posed. The sentence reflects that risk.
“Law enforcement is committed to stopping offenders like him. Parents and kids must stay alert and protect themselves from online threats.”
Stay Safe: Expert Advice Links
If you worry about internet safety or suspect inappropriate behaviour, don’t hesitate to seek help.
- NSPCC offers vital advice for parents, carers, young people, and professionals.
- If you or someone you know has troubling thoughts or behaviours, contact the Lucy Faithfull Foundation for confidential support.
