ADAM CARLING FLEETWOOD SEX OFFENDER CAUGHT IN ONLINE GROOMING PLOT

In a case that highlights the dangers of online predators, Adam Ashley Carling, a 29-year-old man with a troubling criminal history, was apprehended by police in Fleetwood after attempting to engage in sexual conversations with a girl he believed to be only 13 years old. The incident unfolded in November 2017, but the legal proceedings and sentencing occurred in February 2018.

Carling, who previously resided on Ridley Road in Preston and now lives on Navena Avenue in Fleetwood, had a known history of possessing indecent images at his former Preston residence. His latest arrest was the result of a meticulous police investigation that traced his online activity back to his current address in Fleetwood. The police action was initiated after tracing his IP address, which led them directly to his home.

During the court hearing at Preston Crown Court, prosecutor Paul Brookwell detailed the circumstances of the case. He explained that Carling's online accounts were linked to his physical address, making him relatively easy to locate. During the conversations, Carling provided his real email address, which further facilitated the police's investigation. The court was told that in their initial exchange, the girl disclosed her age as 13, to which Carling responded that he was 29. He also expressed awareness of the legal risks involved, stating that he would get into trouble with the police if caught.

Despite his awareness, Carling continued with the inappropriate communication. He engaged in sexual chat with the girl, attempting to incite her to engage in sexual activity. The police arrested him on November 17 at his Fleetwood residence, and he was subsequently taken into custody. During police interviews, Carling chose not to comment on the allegations.

In court, Recorder Andrew Nuttall sentenced Carling to 30 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to charges of attempting to incite a 13-year-old to engage in sexual activity and attempting to communicate with a child for sexual gratification. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the crime, noting that the internet had been used as a medium to establish a connection with the victim and that these criminal attempts had been ongoing over a period of time.

Furthermore, Recorder Nuttall ordered Carling to sign the sex offender register for a period of 10 years, underscoring the long-term restrictions and monitoring that will follow him as a result of his actions. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by online predators and the importance of vigilant law enforcement in protecting vulnerable minors from exploitation.