Convicted sex offender Ian Collard jailed for three years after flouting strict internet ban
Sex Offender Breaks Sexual Harm Prevention Order
Ian Collard, 34, from Gillingham, Medway, has been sentenced to three years behind bars for repeatedly breaking the terms of his Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO). The judge at Maidstone Crown Court handed down the sentence on Friday 14 March after Collard pleaded guilty to seven breaches of the SHPO and three breaches of the Sex Offenders’ Notification Requirements.
Prohibited Internet Use Exposed
Collard was first slapped with the SHPO in 2018 after admitting to attempting to cause a girl to engage in sexual activity. The order came with tough restrictions, banning him from:
- Using social media or dating platforms
- Downloading apps that delete messages or disguise communication
- Accessing the internet without notifying authorities
- Refusing police access to his devices for inspection
But a routine check by Kent Police uncovered Collard had blatantly ignored these rules. He downloaded banned apps—including Snapchat—and used multiple fake profiles on dating sites, directly defying court orders.
Swift Arrest and Tough Justice
Kent Police arrested Collard on 17 May 2024 and charged him the same day. With his guilty plea accepted, the courts swiftly handed down a custodial sentence reflecting the seriousness of his repeated breaches.
Police Warn: Breaches Will Not Be Tolerated
PC Leona Valsler of Kent Police said: “Sexual Harm Prevention Orders exist to protect vulnerable people from predators like Collard. He ignored these conditions and tried to contact potential victims via social media. I’m pleased with this custodial sentence and hope it sends a clear message: we regularly check on convicted offenders and will take action to ensure they face justice if they breach legislation.”
Protecting the Public, One Check at a Time
Kent Police reaffirmed their commitment to strict monitoring of offenders and routine device inspections to keep communities safe. Anyone spotting suspicious online activity is urged to call 101 or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
