DOUGLAS THORPE SENTENCED IN LEWES FOR ATTEMPTED CHILD SEX OFFENSES AFTER PAEDOPHILE HUNT IN SOUTH CHAILEY

In October 2017, paedophile hunters played a crucial role in capturing a man attempting to engage in illegal sex with a minor. Douglas Thorpe, aged 60 and residing on St John’s Bank in South Chailey near Lewes, was sentenced to three years and four months in prison during a hearing at Bolton Crown Court.

The court was informed that Thorpe traveled approximately 250 miles with the intent to meet what he believed was a 14-year-old girl named Kim at a Tesco store in Hindley. His plans were foiled when he was intercepted by Darren, who operates the paedophile hunting group known as 'Creep Catchers.'

Judge Timothy Stead heard that Thorpe had exchanged explicit messages with Kim, including a photograph of his penis, and had groomed her in preparation for meeting. Once detained, police found condoms and lubricant in his pockets, highlighting his intentions.

Initially denying the allegations, Thorpe later admitted to his intentions. Prosecutor Justin Hayhoe explained, “The two had started talking on a social media platform called ‘Scout’. During that time, it was established how old she was,” he stated.

He continued, “The girl (Minto) confirmed he was a girl aged 14 from Wigan. His response was, ‘I could get into trouble for chatting to you lol, I’m older than you.’”

The messages revealed grooming behavior, with Thorpe expressing love for what he believed was a 14-year-old girl, calling her a “sexy girl” and lamenting that he couldn’t see her in a school uniform. Over several weeks, the conversations grew increasingly explicit.

The pair had arranged to meet, during which Thorpe also told “Kim” he had bought her an iPhone 5 for her 14th birthday. The device was recovered from his car following his arrest.