DAVID JOHNSON CAUGHT IN STOFORD: PAEDOPHILE HUNTERS SHOCK SWINDON BURGER KING

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the local community, David Johnson, a 37-year-old man from Stoford near Salisbury, was recently apprehended after attempting to engage in inappropriate and illegal activities involving a minor. The incident unfolded at a Burger King located on Queens Drive in Swindon, where Johnson was confronted by a group of vigilant paedophile hunters.

According to court records, Johnson had been communicating with what he believed to be a 14-year-old girl named India through social media platform Chat Hour. The conversations later transitioned to WhatsApp, where Johnson’s intentions became increasingly explicit. He sent a photograph of his private parts and encouraged the girl to touch herself, all while expressing a desire to be her boyfriend. Throughout their exchanges, Johnson claimed he wanted to take things slowly and ensure she was comfortable with any actions taken.

Prosecutor Andrew Stone detailed to Swindon Crown Court that Johnson was repeatedly informed that the girl was only 14 years old. Despite this, Johnson appeared to take the situation seriously, even expressing concern about groups dedicated to exposing paedophiles, which indicated he was aware of the risks involved. The conversations culminated in an agreement to meet in person, with Johnson arriving at the Burger King on April 24 of the previous year at around 7 pm.

However, his plans were thwarted when he was confronted by a group of paedophile hunters who had been monitoring his online activity. The group recorded the encounter and shared the footage on social media, which later became a key piece of evidence in the case. During police interviews, Johnson chose to answer questions with no comment but eventually admitted to his wife that he had been involved in inappropriate communications with the minor.

While there was no evidence suggesting Johnson had made arrangements for sexual activity, such as booking a hotel room, the court noted that his conversations clearly indicated a desire for a sexual relationship. Johnson pleaded guilty to charges of attempting to groom a child and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

The footage of his arrest, captured by the paedophile hunter group, was circulated online, though it has since been removed. Nonetheless, the images and videos caused Johnson significant humiliation. His legal counsel highlighted his previous good character and potential for rehabilitation, emphasizing that he is a father of three daughters.

Judge Peter Crabtree sentenced Johnson to 18 months in prison. Additionally, he was ordered to comply with a sexual harm prevention order that restricts his internet access for ten years and to register as a sex offender for the same period. This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and community groups to combat online grooming and protect vulnerable minors from exploitation.