Warminster Man Dodges Jail After Sick Attempt to Chat with ‘14-Year-Old’
Gary Edge, 46, of Swaledale Road, Warminster, has been handed an eight-month prison sentence – but it’s suspended for two years. The ruling came down at Salisbury Crown Court.
Strict Orders and Tough Conditions for Edge
- Six-month alcohol treatment requirement
- 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement
- £156 victim surcharge
- 10 years on the Sex Offender’s Register
- 10-year sexual harm prevention order
Edge Tried Chatting Up Underage Girl—But It Was a Sting
Between March and May last year, Edge engaged in sexualised conversations with who he believed was a 14-year-old girl. However, the “girl” was actually an adult police decoy posing as a teenager. Despite knowing her age, Edge continued his inappropriate talks.
Wiltshire Police swooped and arrested Edge in June 2022. He was then charged with the offences.
Police Praise Sentence, Warn Public to Speak Up
DS Sam Hopkinson said: “I’m pleased that Edge has been sentenced and has been given a lengthy sexual harm prevention order and must be on the Sex Offender’s Register for the next decade.”
“Wiltshire Police is completely committed to protecting children from sexual abuse and those who seek to do them harm.
“While there was fortunately no victim in this case, I would like to encourage anyone who has suffered a sexual offence to come forward and speak to us as soon as possible.
“Our specially trained officers will treat you with sensitivity and compassion.”
DS Hopkinson added: “If you have concerns a child you know may be at risk, please report it to us immediately.”
For more info, visit Wiltshire Police’s child abuse advice page.
