Ex-Social Worker Busted for Creepy Chats with Vulnerable Kids
Thomas Weller, 33, from Horsham, West Sussex, has been nailed for abusing his role to send explicit messages to vulnerable children. A probe kicked off on March 3 after shocking sexual messages were found on a teenage girl’s Snapchat. Weller kept up the dirty texts even after the girl revealed she was underage. He even dangled booze as bait for sexual favours.
Investigation Exposes Data Misuse & More Victims
Authorities uncovered that Weller had exploited his position to access confidential data illegally. He was arrested on March 24. The police then found evidence of similar sick communications with another teenage girl on his Snapchat account. Weller now faces two counts of sexual communication with a child and misconduct in public office.
Guilty Plea and Upcoming Sentencing
On July 5, Weller pleaded guilty to the sexual communication charges at Lewes Crown Court. By July 31, he admitted misconduct in public office. He remains in custody and is set for sentencing on September 27.
Police Praise Victims & Call for More Info
“Thomas Weller abused his position of trust and responsibility to take advantage of vulnerable children,” said Detective Chief Inspector Jon Gillings. “Thanks go to the victims and their families for coming forward, and to West Sussex County Council for their swift action.”
Sussex Police are probing whether Weller targeted more victims. Anyone with details should contact the police online or via 101, quoting serial 297 of 31/07.
