Paedophile Caught in Double Sting Jailed for Two Years
William Grassby was locked up today at Sheffield Crown Court after admitting to multiple sexual communications offences involving children. The 47-year-old was caught in not one, but two sting operations – one by police, the other by vigilant members of the public.
Grooming Attempts Exposed
Grassby messaged a decoy he believed was a 14-year-old for a week before trying to arrange a meet-up for sex at Meadowhall, Sheffield. He didn’t stop there. The predator also targeted an undercover cop posing as a 12-year-old boy on social media, bombarding him with sexual messages and arranging to meet.
Shocking Evidence Found on Devices
After his arrest, officers seized Grassby’s electronic gadgets. They uncovered further disturbing sexual communications with suspected children. Charged with two counts of attempting sexual communication with a child and one of attempting to meet a child under 16 after grooming, Grassby pleaded guilty on February 16 and was sentenced today.
Warning to Parents from Lead Investigator
“Grassby is an incredibly depraved individual with abhorrent intentions towards children,” said investigating officer Sarah Anderson. “He knew the children’s ages and arranged meetings away from CCTV. This should ring alarm bells for parents, especially regarding social media use. If you suspect anything, please contact us immediately.”
Grassby, formerly of Spring Close View, has been slapped with a 10-year sexual harm prevention order and will remain on the sex offenders’ register for a decade.
