GARY ROBERTS FROM DAREN AND HUNCOAT CAUGHT TRYING TO CONTACT YOUNG BOYS ONLINE - FINAL WARNING FROM COURT

In April 2019, a serious incident involving a known sex offender from the areas of Darwen and Huncoat came to light, highlighting ongoing concerns about online safety and the monitoring of individuals with a history of sexual offenses. Gary Lee Roberts, aged 44 and residing in Huncoat at the time, was at the center of this case. His previous convictions and the court’s subsequent restrictions had not deterred him from attempting to re-engage with young boys through social media platforms.

Roberts had previously been subjected to a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) issued by Burnley Crown Court in May 2017. This order was a legal measure designed to restrict his online activities and prevent any further contact with minors, following his conviction for attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual activity and for attempting to meet a child after grooming. Despite these restrictions, Roberts was found to have violated the court’s orders, prompting serious concern among law enforcement officials and the judiciary.

In February of the previous year, police officers conducted a visit to Roberts’ supported accommodation in Huncoat. During this visit, they examined his mobile phone and discovered troubling evidence: Roberts had been engaging in conversations with various males on Kik Messenger, some of which contained sexualized content. The court was informed that these chats were not casual but involved explicit discussions, raising alarm about his intentions and behavior.

Further investigation revealed that Roberts had used Kik Messenger to join a group chat consisting of children aged between 12 and 14 years old. Prosecutor Craig MacGregor explained that Roberts had pretended to be a 14-year-old boy himself, even going as far as claiming to have a 31-year-old boyfriend. This deception was part of his attempt to establish contact and possibly manipulate or exploit the young members of the group.

Roberts, who had since moved to Darwen, pleaded guilty to breaching the terms of his SHPO. His actions led to a court hearing at Burnley Crown Court, where he was sentenced to 15 months in prison. However, the sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time immediately but would be under close supervision during this period. As part of his sentence, Roberts was also required to participate in a 30-day rehabilitation activity program, sign the sex offenders register for a decade, and adhere to a five-week curfew to monitor his movements.

Judge Sara Dodd emphasized the gravity of Roberts’ breach, stating that this was his final opportunity to avoid incarceration. She warned that any further violations or criminal behavior would result in an immediate jail sentence, underscoring the seriousness with which the court viewed his actions and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable minors from potential harm.