Serial Child Abuser Ian Crockford Locked Up Again
Ian Crockford, 52, from Salvington, has been jailed for possession and distribution of illegal child images. Previously convicted in 2019 for child sex offences, Crockford was under a strict Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) banning him from using electronic devices freely or contacting vulnerable groups.
New Evidence Found After March Tip-Off
Authorities were tipped off in March 2023 about Crockford’s ongoing dirty behaviour. Police found hundreds of indecent images on his devices. He wasn’t just hoarding them – Crockford was also sharing images and advising others on child abuse.
Busted for Breaking Bail and SHPO
At Worthing Magistrates Court on December 12, 2023, Crockford pleaded guilty to six counts linked to creating and sharing child abuse images, plus one count of distributing obscene materials, and breaching his SHPO. After being bailed, he quickly broke the rules by buying a new phone to contact minors and storing more illegal images.
He was arrested again and hit with extra charges. On February 29, 2024, Lewes Crown Court slammed him with a three-year prison sentence for his relentless crimes.
Police Praise Their Relentless Pursuit
Detective Sergeant Paul Hitchcock of West Sussex’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team said: “Sexual Harm Prevention Orders are vital to protect victims and the community. Our officers worked tirelessly to catch Crockford. Offenders breaking these orders will face consequences—let this be a warning.”
“We did excellent work to keep children safe. Crockford is a dangerous individual who now sits behind bars.”
