Registered Sex Offender John Devine Jailed Over Child Abuse Images
John Devine, 52, a registered sex offender living in Salisbury and on prison licence, has been sentenced after pleading guilty to multiple child exploitation offences.
Disturbing Offences Uncovered
- Making indecent images of a child (categories A, B, and C)
- Distributing indecent images of a child (categories A and C)
- Attempting sexual communication with a child
- Attempting to cause a child to engage in penetrative sexual activity
- Attempting to cause a child to view images of sexual activity
Between 2 September and 1 October 2021, Devine engaged in sexually explicit online chats with what he believed was a 12-year-old boy, urging the child to perform sexual acts.
No Real-Life Victim but Horrific Images Found
The investigation, carried out with South Wales’ TARIAN Regional Organised Crime Unit, found no actual victim or contact abuse. However, police seized devices from Devine’s home containing over 600 category A indecent images — the most severe form of child abuse imagery.
Devine received a 12-year prison sentence and must remain on the sex offender register for life.
Police Vow to Protect Children at All Costs
Det Con Sadie McCoy from Wiltshire Police’s Child Internet Exploitation Team said: “Despite being on licence at the time, Devine continued to offend. He poses a serious risk to society. I’m pleased the courts recognised this with a lengthy prison sentence.”
“This investigation shows Wiltshire Police’s commitment to rooting out offenders like Devine. We encourage anyone aware of child sexual abuse to come forward. You will be supported by professionals dedicated to protecting children.”
Det Insp Mathew Davies from TARIAN ROCU added: “Our priority is to keep children safe. We relentlessly pursue offenders who use the internet to abuse children. Victims can report abuse confidentially any time by contacting their local police.”
If you have concerns about child sexual abuse or harmful online behaviour, help is available. The Lucy Faithfull Foundation offers free, anonymous support for those worried about themselves or others.
