GLENN ALGAR FROM POTTERS BAR JAILED FOR INTERNET GROOMING AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY IN LONDON

In a case that has shocked the local community of Potters Bar and the wider London area, Detective Constable Glenn Algar, aged 45, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for serious offences related to online child exploitation. Algar, a highly decorated officer with a long-standing career in law enforcement, was found guilty of attempting to groom a schoolgirl for sexual activity through the internet.

What makes this case particularly disturbing is the fact that Algar believed he was communicating with a young girl, but in reality, he was exchanging explicit messages with an undercover colleague working covertly. The deception was part of an undercover operation aimed at uncovering online grooming activities, but Algar’s actions crossed the line into criminal behavior.

In addition to the grooming charges, Algar admitted to possessing indecent images of children, which further compounded his legal troubles. The case was heard at Southwark Crown Court, where Judge Christopher Hardy sentenced him and ordered him to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years. Furthermore, Algar has been permanently barred from working with children, reflecting the severity of his misconduct.

Prior to his arrest and court appearance, Algar, a married father of two, resigned from his position in the police force. His resignation came before he was formally charged and appeared in court on a Thursday.

Algar’s criminal activities came to light after he pleaded guilty in January to multiple charges, including internet grooming and six counts related to the making and possession of indecent images. His career in law enforcement, which spanned over 26 years and was marked by numerous commendations from senior officers, has now been overshadowed by these serious allegations.

During the court proceedings, prosecutor Peter Zinner highlighted Algar’s decorated service record, emphasizing the stark contrast between his professional reputation and his criminal conduct. The judge, in his sentencing remarks, pointed out that the images found in Algar’s possession justified a prison sentence. He warned that the possession and use of such images not only harm victims but also encourage others to commit similar offenses.

While the judge acknowledged that Algar now presents a “low risk” of re-offending, he emphasized the importance of safeguarding children. As part of his sentence, Algar will be subject to an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which prohibits him from using computers or other electronic devices to contact minors.

Algar is expected to be released after serving just over five months, once credit is given for time already spent on remand. His case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and integrity within law enforcement, and the devastating impact of online child exploitation.