DANNY RITCHY FROM STOCKTON SENTENCED FOR ONLINE CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN CLEVELAND

Danny Ritchy, a 45-year-old resident of Stockton, has been convicted and sentenced for a series of disturbing online offenses involving minors. The investigation, carried out by Cleveland Police’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT), uncovered that Ritchy engaged in illicit communications with young girls through social media platforms, specifically Facebook, during the period from January to July 2024.

During this initial phase, Ritchy used a fake profile to contact a girl he believed was only 14 years old. The malicious intent behind his actions was clear, as he sought to establish a sexual connection with the minor. The investigation revealed that between July and August 2024, Ritchy continued his predatory behavior, this time using both a fake profile and his real name to groom a 13-year-old girl. His actions escalated further when he sent the young victim explicit videos of himself, a deeply disturbing development that underscored the severity of his misconduct.

Following the discovery of these activities, Ritchy was arrested in August and faced multiple charges. The charges included attempted sexual communication with a child, engaging in sexual communication with a child, inciting a child to participate in sexual activity, and sending explicit photographs that caused alarm, distress, or humiliation. Additionally, he was charged with causing a minor to view images of sexual activity, making an indecent image of a child, and other related offenses. Ritchy admitted to all 11 charges during his court proceedings.

On Monday, 17th January, Ritchy appeared before Teesside Crown Court, where he was sentenced to three and a half years in prison. The court also ordered that he be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life, reflecting the gravity of his crimes. Furthermore, he was issued an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), which imposes strict restrictions aimed at preventing any future offenses and protecting the community.

Detective Constable Barnes, a member of POLIT, commented on the case, stating, “Ritchy targeted children online in pursuit of his own sexual gratification. We will continue to identify those who groom and coerce vulnerable children online and ensure they face the full force of the law.” He emphasized the importance of vigilance and encouraged children and young people to report any concerning online interactions. Detective Barnes added, “We’d encourage any child or young person who is concerned about someone they’re speaking to online, to tell someone about it or report it directly to the police.”

Members of the public are urged to report any incidents of online grooming or abuse to Cleveland Police, either through their official website or by calling 101, to help protect vulnerable children from predators like Ritchy.