CHRISTOPHER FENTON HORSHAM SEX OFFENDER AVOIDS JAIL AFTER ONLINE CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION CASE

In June 2021, a disturbing case involving a man from Horsham, identified as Christopher Fenton, came to light concerning his inappropriate online conduct with a minor. Fenton, who was residing in Horsham at the time, engaged in illicit conversations with a teenage boy, inciting him to perform sexual acts during a chat that took place in 2013. The victim, who was only 14 years old at the time, was targeted through online messaging platforms, with Fenton initiating contact from his home in Horsham.

Details of the case reveal that Fenton, then a toy shop worker, had used the internet to communicate with the young boy, encouraging him to engage in sexual activities. The investigation into Fenton’s actions was triggered when authorities discovered that the victim had downloaded indecent images of children onto his devices. A thorough search of the devices led to the uncovering of a Skype conversation between Fenton and the minor, dating back to 2013.

Fenton’s arrest and subsequent court proceedings took place at Lewes Crown Court. During the hearing, he admitted to inciting a child under the age of 16 into sexual activity. Despite the gravity of the charges, Fenton was handed an eight-month prison sentence, which was suspended, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offences.

Prosecutor Edward Hand provided details about the case, stating, “Some electronic devices were recovered and examined. Police found Skype chats between this defendant and the then 14-year-old from 2013. It was a fairly short conversation, but police carried out enquiries and identified an internet address used by the defendant.”

Judge Martin Huseyin addressed the court, emphasizing Fenton’s honesty about his sexual interests, which he had disclosed to the probation service. The judge noted that there was evidence indicating Fenton was actively working on addressing these issues. He also pointed out that no offences had been committed since 2013, and acknowledged the long delay in bringing the case to court, stating, “It is clear you were honest with the probation service about your sexual interest in those underage boys. There is evidence you are actively working on that. There have been no offences since 2013, when this offence took place. There has been a long delay and this case has been hanging over you for a long time.”

As part of his sentencing, Fenton, of Pondtail Avenue, Faygate, Horsham, was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which restricts his access to children. He is also required to register as a sex offender for the next ten years. Additionally, Fenton was ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid community service, attend 30 rehabilitation sessions, and pay court costs amounting to £300.