DEAN THOMPSON FROM PORTSLADE SENTENCED FOR ONLINE SEXUAL PREDATION AND DRUG OFFERINGS

In a case that highlights the ongoing dangers of online grooming and exploitation, Dean Thompson, a 24-year-old resident of Hamilton Close in Portslade, has been sentenced to six years in prison for engaging in predatory behavior towards young girls through various digital platforms.

Thompson systematically contacted girls aged between eleven and fifteen via social media and messaging apps, including Facebook, Kik, Skype, and through text messages. His communications often involved offers of drugs, specifically cocaine, to entice the minors into meeting him in person. The Sussex Police revealed that Thompson’s predatory activities spanned several years, with initial contact dating back to 2010.

The first police intervention occurred in 2012 when a 12-year-old girl reported that Thompson had contacted her with sexual intentions. However, due to insufficient evidence at that time, no prosecution followed. It was only after another victim came forward in 2013 that authorities were able to build a case against him. During the investigation, police uncovered multiple other victims who had been contacted since 2010, demonstrating a pattern of predatory behavior that persisted over several years.

Remarkably, Thompson continued to communicate with some victims even while on bail, raising concerns about his ongoing threat to children. The Sussex Police spokesperson confirmed that the police uncovered several victims during their investigation, emphasizing the extent of Thompson’s online grooming activities.

Thompson appeared before Lewes Crown Court on a Monday, where Judge Guy Anthony sentenced him to six years in prison. In addition to the custodial sentence, the judge imposed a lifetime Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), which restricts Thompson’s access to computers and children, aiming to prevent further offenses. Furthermore, Thompson is now required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

Thompson pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including three counts of attempting to meet a child under 16 years old, two counts of inciting a girl under 16 to watch sexual content, five counts of inciting five girls under 16 to engage in sexual activities, and two counts of offering to supply Class A drugs to a minor.

Detective Constable Leianne Blampied issued a stark warning about the dangers posed by the internet, emphasizing the importance of vigilance. She stated, “This case is a further reminder to young people and those looking after them to be very careful about engaging in personal web contact with anyone you do not know.”

Sussex Police strongly advises children and teenagers to avoid sharing personal details, photographs, or any identifying information online. They also recommend that minors do not take people at face value and should never agree to meet someone from the internet without the presence of a responsible adult. The police suggest that children should only use chat services designed specifically for their age group to minimize risks and protect themselves from predators like Dean Thompson.