A 68-year-old man has been convicted after trying to pay for the rape of children as young as six—while also helping others do the same. Edward Gratwick was caught before he could board a flight to Bucharest, Romania, to carry out his sick plans.
Brutal Child Abuse Plot Exposed
The National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation uncovered a chilling network of abuse organised by Gratwick from his home in Mitcham, London. Searches found hundreds of indecent images of children and encrypted chats where he arranged and encouraged child sexual abuse.
He even offered to supply the drug GBL to sedate children, making it easier to commit the horrific crimes. In conversations, he discussed pricing for beating children as young as ten, revealing the full horror of his depraved mindset.
CPS Specialist Calls It ‘Abhorrent’
Robbie Weber, Specialist Prosecutor for the CPS, said:
“The abuse Edward Gratwick described inflicting on young children with other like-minded individuals was abhorrent. He was prepared to pay huge sums to exploit children and even coached others in how to commit these vile acts.
Our specialist unit, working with the NCA, built a solid case that led to his conviction. I thank the jury for facing this harrowing evidence. This conviction sends a powerful message: we will relentlessly pursue justice for every child.”
Jury Finds Him Guilty of 38 Offences
Gratwick was arrested at Stansted Airport in March 2025, just before flying out to Romania. His devices revealed sickening chat logs and images. The jury found him guilty of 38 offences today. He had already pleaded guilty to two others. Sentencing is set for 28 November.
Danielle Pownall, Senior Investigating Officer at the NCA, added:
“The chat logs are some of the worst seen by our investigators. Despite overwhelming evidence, Gratwick shows no remorse. Thanks to the jury for enduring this distressing evidence. We continue working with international partners to protect vulnerable children worldwide.”
Ongoing Efforts to Protect Victims
Police and prosecutors are now focusing on identifying all the victims and ensuring their safety. The CPS’s dedicated Organised Child Sexual Abuse Unit specialises in tackling these complex cases to secure justice and safeguard children.
