DANIEL BOYD FROM SKELMERSDALE SENTENCED AFTER PAEDOPHILE HUNTING STING IN PRESTON

In October 2020, a disturbing case unfolded involving Daniel Ryan Boyd, a 23-year-old resident of Skelmersdale, who found himself at the center of a criminal investigation following a sting operation conducted by a paedophile hunting team. Boyd was apprehended after engaging in online communications with what he believed was a 14-year-old girl, with the apparent intent of grooming her for sexual activity.

Boyd appeared before Preston Crown Court to face charges related to his actions. During the proceedings, it was revealed that the supposed victim was not real; instead, the individual Boyd had been communicating with was a member of the paedophile hunting team known as ‘Totnes Justice’. This team specializes in setting up online traps to catch individuals attempting to engage in illegal sexual activities with minors.

Following a guilty plea to charges of sexual communication with a child, Boyd was sentenced by the court. His punishment included a prison term of 16 months, which was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offences within that period. Additionally, he was ordered to serve 35 days of a Restraining and Rehabilitation (RAR) order, aimed at monitoring and rehabilitating offenders.

Furthermore, Boyd was mandated to complete a Sex Offender Accredited Programme consisting of 34 sessions, designed to address and modify offending behavior. The court also imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) for a duration of ten years, restricting Boyd’s activities and contact to prevent any future harm.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and community groups to combat online grooming and protect vulnerable minors from exploitation. The sentencing underscores the seriousness with which such offences are treated and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding children in the digital age.