Bolton Man Jailed for Posing as Teen Girl to Exploit Boys Online
Ben Thompson, arrested in Bolton, has been sentenced to four years behind bars after a grim online grooming spree. Thompson masqueraded as a teenage girl, luring boys into explicit chats and coercing them to send sexual images and videos. His vile actions have left deep scars on the young victims’ mental health.
The Dark Web of Deceit
Under the fake profile ‘Erinstewart788,’ Thompson pretended to be ‘Erin,’ a teenage girl, to build trust with boys across the UK. Once he had them hooked, he demanded explicit content, exploiting their vulnerability. This shocking revelation came to light thanks to Bolton’s specialist Child Protection Investigation Unit.
Parents Raise Alarm, Police Act Fast
In June 2020, the alarm was sounded by parents of an eleven-year-old boy who reported suspicious grooming behaviour online. Police launched a swift investigation. Digital detectives traced the fake profile straight back to Thompson.
Massive Haul of Exploitative Content Found
Police raided Thompson’s Lostock home in November 2020. They seized his mobile devices containing over two million files—more than one thousand were indecent images and videos coerced from children. Investigators uncovered disturbing sexual messages exchanged with underage boys not just in Manchester, but also across the South West and North East of England.
Justice for Victims
Despite Thompson staying tight-lipped during interrogations, the evidence crushed his defence. Detective Sergeant Matt Quayle applauded the bravery of the victims and survivors. “If you suspect your child is targeted or see suspicious social media accounts, report it immediately,” he urged.
