A former Essex Police officer who posed as a teenager on TikTok and Snapchat to exploit children into sending explicit images has been jailed for four years and six months.
Mark Ling, 39, formerly of Ipswich, Suffolk, admitted to 13 sexual offences involving children aged between 12 and 14. He was sentenced at Ipswich Crown Court after pleading guilty earlier this year.
“Sophisticated Sex Offender”
Judge Martyn Levett described Ling as a “sophisticated sex offender,” noting that Ling used social media platforms to emotionally manipulate his victims.
The court heard that Ling:
- Used a family member’s phone to set up fake profiles
- Posed as a teenage girl named “Jessie” on TikTok to lure victims
- Directed victims to Snapchat, where he posed as “Tom” — a fake teenage boy
- Pressured young girls into participating in so-called “loyalty tests” to solicit explicit photos
Victims described the ordeal as deeply traumatising, with one 14-year-old girl suffering ongoing panic attacks and another 13-year-old victim with ADHD and autism expressing fears for her safety.
Sacked From Essex Police
Ling was dismissed from Essex Police following an accelerated misconduct hearing in December 2024.
Chief Constable BJ Harrington condemned Ling’s actions:
Mark Ling is a serial offender who has no place in policing. His actions disgust us and do not reflect the values of our dedicated officers and staff.
Calls for Stronger Online Protections
An NSPCC spokesperson highlighted the dangers of private messaging apps like Snapchat, stating:
This case shows how offenders are exploiting private messaging platforms to abuse children out of sight.
TikTok responded by confirming that it employs technology to detect signs of grooming and has restrictions in place for young users.
