A convicted sex offender who built a wall around his home to dodge police checks has been locked up. Lee McLoughlin, 49, of Wood Avenue, Folkestone, tried to hide internet devices from cops by erecting a 6ft fence, installing multiple cameras, and even fitting an alarm to his front door.
Caught Hiding Devices Despite Strict Court Order
McLoughlin was slapped with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) after a 2016 conviction for possession of indecent images of children. The SHPO restricted his internet use and gave police powers to regularly check his devices. But he became obstructive, raising suspicion he was hiding gadgets. Police finally got a warrant in April 2025. A search found seven undeclared internet-enabled devices. He faced 12 charges for breaching his SHPO and three more for making indecent images following a 2023 search.
Found Guilty, Sentenced to Nearly Three Years
McLoughlin denied all charges, but a jury convicted him after a two-week trial. On 8 April 2026, Woolwich Crown Court sentenced him to two years and eight months behind bars. He also received a renewed 10-year SHPO.
DC Louise Batten said: “McLoughlin knew he was breaking the conditions placed on him and went to considerable lengths, including modifying his home, to hide from us. I am pleased the court has imposed a custodial sentence that reflects the seriousness of his behaviour.’” “Court orders such as SHPOs protect the public, and we will relentlessly investigate and detect breaches to bring offenders who disregard their conditions back before a court.”
