London Cop Caught Trying to Lure Underage Girl Online
Police Sergeant James Chatfield, 36, has admitted to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child. The London-based officer pleaded guilty at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 18 November.
Six Months Jail Suspended, Seven-Year Sex Ban
On Monday, Inner London Crown Court handed Chatfield a six-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. He was also slapped with a seven-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
Chatfield Tried to Groom 12-Year-Old on Snapchat and Chat Avenue
The court heard how, on 23 and 26 September 2022, Chatfield used Snapchat and Chat Avenue to chat up who he thought was a 12-year-old girl. Posing as a 17-year-old boy, he asked for intimate photos.
But the so-called child was actually an undercover officer from South Wales Police.
Swift Arrest After Police Sting
South Wales Police alerted British Transport Police’s (BTP) Professional Standards Department after a probe of Chatfield’s IP address revealed he was an officer. He was quickly arrested and questioned by BTP detectives.
Deputy Chief Constable Alistair Sutherland blasted the officer: “It is profoundly disturbing to know that a serving officer could ever consider exploiting a child for their own sexual gain.”
“James Chatfield does not represent our values. His fast-track disciplinary proceedings will take place early next year.”
“Thanks to the fast and thorough investigation by our Professional Standards Department and South Wales Police, Chatfield was arrested and sentenced within three months of these abhorrent offences.”
Detective Inspector Mathew Davies of Tarian ROCU, the southern Wales organised crime unit, said: “We will chase anyone with a sexualised interest in children, no matter their profession.”
“Chatfield’s case is especially concerning as he impersonated a 17-year-old in a teen chat group to target a girl he believed was 12. Our specialist officers work tirelessly to protect children online and bring predators to justice.”
“Protecting children is our absolute priority. We will relentlessly hunt down those who use the internet to exploit them.”
