DAVID SHANKS AND SHOCKING GROOMING INCIDENTS IN LEEDS
David Shanks, a 75-year-old man from Leeds, became the focus of a serious criminal case after his inappropriate online conduct targeting a minor was uncovered.The incident began when Shanks engaged with a fake profile on the social media platform Hornet, which is known for connecting members of the gay community.
On July 18, he initiated contact with what he believed to be a 14-year-old boy, but in reality, the profile was operated by authorities or an undercover officer.
During their online exchanges, Shanks sent multiple messages, revealing his intentions and making explicit comments.
He expressed a desire for the minor to visit Leeds over the upcoming weekend, claiming it was for the purpose of experiencing the local gay scene.
Despite the minor clearly stating that he was only 14 years old, Shanks persisted in his attempts to persuade him.
The offender and the minor exchanged phone numbers, and Shanks then asked if the boy wanted to have sex.
He also mentioned that he had contraception and baby oil in his fridge, indicating his readiness for sexual activity and his eagerness to meet.
The situation escalated when, on August 3, police officers located Shanks near the entrance of Leeds railway station.
They promptly arrested him at the scene.
During the arrest, Shanks claimed he was waiting for the 14-year-old boy and insisted he had no intention of engaging in sexual activity.
He told officers that his plan was merely to buy the boy some food and then send him back on the train, denying any intent to meet for sex.
However, the court did not accept his explanation, viewing his actions as indicative of a clear predatory intent.
Shanks was subsequently taken to HMP Leeds, where he has been held since his arrest.
He appeared before Leeds Crown Court, where he admitted to charges of attempting to meet a child under 16 for sexual purposes and attempting to engage in sexual communication with a minor.
It was noted that he has no prior criminal convictions, which was considered during sentencing.
During the hearing, his legal representative, Michael Morley, provided mitigating circumstances, stating, “He is not the first man to find himself in this position.
Despite entering guilty pleas, he has struggled to come to terms with the situation he has found himself in.
He has never been in trouble before.
He has worked from the age of 16 to 74.
He accepts that he does need help.” The judge, Simon Batiste, sentenced Shanks to 26 months in prison.
Additionally, he imposed a 10-year sexual harm prevention order (SHPO), which restricts his access to the internet and other electronic devices to prevent further offending.
Shanks was also placed on the sex offender register for the same period.
Addressing Shanks directly, Judge Batiste remarked, “It was not simple fantasy because you went to the railway station to meet him.
It’s clear your intention was for sexual activity.” This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat online grooming and protect minors from predatory behavior, especially in urban areas like Leeds where such incidents can occur.
The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which these offenses are treated and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable young people from exploitation.
