Teesside University Student Jailed for 13 Years Over 26 Child Sex Offences
A former computer science student at Teesside University has been sentenced to 13 years and nine months in prison after admitting to 26 sexual offences involving children.
Ratnakar Singh, 25, an international student from India, appeared at Teesside Crown Court on Thursday, 19 June, where he pleaded guilty to a string of disturbing crimes committed while he was studying for a master’s degree in computer science.
The Offences
Singh admitted to the following charges:
- 5 counts of engaging in sexual communication with a child
- 3 counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity
- 2 counts of causing a child aged 13 to 15 to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity
- 1 count of penetrative sexual activity with a child
- 1 count of arranging the commission of a child sexual offence
- 1 count of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity
- 6 counts of possessing indecent images of children
The offences, which took place over a prolonged period, were uncovered during a police investigation into online child abuse.
Police and Legal Response
Detectives described Singh as a dangerous predator who used social media and online platforms to groom and exploit vulnerable children. Investigators found a disturbing cache of indecent images and explicit online communications linking Singh to underage victims.
A police spokesperson said:
“This is a harrowing case involving the deliberate targeting of children for sexual gratification. Singh exploited his position as a student with technological knowledge to engage in calculated abuse.”
The court heard that Singh operated under multiple online aliases and used encryption tools to avoid detection, but was eventually traced and arrested following digital forensics analysis.
Sentencing and Safeguarding Measures
In addition to the 13 years and nine months custodial sentence, Singh will:
- Be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life
- Be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO)
- Face automatic deportation upon completion of his sentence
The judge told Singh:
“Your offences reflect a pattern of calculated, exploitative and deeply harmful behaviour. You pose a significant risk to children and the public.”
University Statement
Teesside University issued a statement following the sentencing:
“We are shocked by these revelations and are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities. We have zero tolerance for any form of abuse and are committed to safeguarding all members of our community.”
Appeal for Information
Authorities continue to encourage anyone with information or concerns related to online child abuse to contact police or report anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
