JAMES DUNCAN WRIGHT CAUGHT IN YORK SEX OFFENDER CASE INVOLVING ONLINE STING

James Duncan Wright, a 35-year-old man from York, found himself at the center of a serious criminal investigation involving online predatory behavior. The incident unfolded during the first national lockdown, a period marked by heightened restrictions and increased online activity. Wright believed he was communicating with a 12-year-old girl through an internet chat, but in reality, he was engaging with an undercover police officer operating a fake profile designed to lure potential offenders.

Prosecutor Philip Morley outlined at York Crown Court that Wright initially used a false name and falsely claimed to be 16 years old during his online exchanges. Throughout the conversations, Wright sent and received explicit sexual images and videos, demonstrating a clear intent to engage in sexual activities with a minor. He also expressed a desire to meet the girl in person and exchanged phone numbers, further indicating his intentions. It was emphasized that Wright was under the impression he was speaking to a young girl, specifically a 12-year-old, and he actively sexualized the conversation, making efforts to incite the minor to engage in sexual acts.

In reality, all interactions were with an undercover officer, not a real child. The police had set up this sting operation to catch individuals attempting to exploit minors online. Wright’s actions led to his arrest and subsequent court proceedings, where he pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including attempted sexual communication with a child, attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual activity, and trying to have a child watch sexual acts.

The court heard that Wright believed he was communicating with a young girl and was actively engaging in sexualized dialogue. His behavior was deemed highly inappropriate and criminal, prompting the court to impose a significant sentence. Wright was sentenced to 15 months in prison, a penalty that reflects the severity of his actions. Additionally, he was placed on the sex offenders’ register for a period of 10 years, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

Furthermore, Wright was ordered to adhere to a sexual harm prevention order that restricts his internet use and contact with minors for five years. This order aims to prevent any future attempts at similar offenses and protect vulnerable children from exploitation. Defense lawyer Sean Smith highlighted that Wright’s life had been significantly impacted by the legal process and his incarceration. He pointed out that Wright had been undergoing weekly professional counseling, was dealing with health issues such as cancer and depression, and was on medication that affected his ability to work. These factors were presented as context for his actions, though they did not mitigate the seriousness of the crimes committed.