Locations
Chywoone Hill, Newlyn, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18
Description
A Penzance man has been jailed for over four years for inciting a child into sexual activity online.
Christopher Stevens, of Chywoone Hill in Newlyn, appeared at Truro Crown Court on Friday 8 May where he was sentenced to four years and six months’ imprisonment.
The 65-year-old pleaded guilty on 13th April to causing/or inciting a child under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity.
The court heard how Stevens had been in contact with the child over a dating app before moving over to a messaging app where explicit content was shared. It was only when the child’s father looked through her phone that contact ceased and the police were immediately alerted.
On sentencing, Stevens was made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) for a period of 10 years, placing strict restrictions on his internet use and contact with children upon release. He was also placed onto the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Emily Distin said:
“This case highlights the serious risks posed to children in online environments and the determined efforts of law enforcement to identify and prosecute those who seek to exploit young people.
“This emphasises the importance of parents, carers and guardians remaining vigilant to children’s online activity and encouraging open conversations about internet safety.
“Anyone with concerns about child exploitation or inappropriate online behaviour is urged to report it to police or via the appropriate safeguarding channels below.”