HEMSBY MAN JASON WESTROP CAUGHT BY PAEDOPHILE HUNTERS BEFORE COURT HEARING IN IPSWICH

In August 2017, a man from Hemsby named Jason Westrop, aged 36, found himself at the center of a serious criminal case that unfolded in Ipswich. The case was brought to light after vigilante paedophile hunters set up a sting operation targeting individuals attempting to engage in illegal activities involving minors. Westrop was apprehended during this operation, which aimed to expose individuals seeking to exploit children.

According to court records, Westrop was scheduled to face justice at Ipswich Crown Court, where he faced charges related to child sexual offenses. Specifically, he admitted to arranging or facilitating a sexual offense involving a child, as well as attempting to meet a girl believed to be 15 years old. The incidents in question took place between October 28 and November 1 of the previous year, with the defendant not reasonably believing that the girl was over the age of 16. The charges stemmed from a sexual grooming process that was believed to have occurred during this period.

Prosecutor Michael Crimp outlined the details of the case, emphasizing that the charges arose from a vigilante operation involving someone who was believed to be a 15-year-old girl. The prosecution indicated that the intent was for the defendant to engage in penetrative sex with the minor, highlighting the severity of the allegations.

During the court proceedings, Judge John Devaux decided to adjourn the sentencing until September 25. The judge ordered a pre-sentence report to be prepared before finalizing the punishment. He also issued a warning to Westrop, clarifying that he was not bound to any specific sentence at this stage. Additionally, Westrop was ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register on an interim basis, pending the final sentencing decision.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and vigilant community members to combat child exploitation and bring offenders to justice. The court's decision to delay sentencing reflects the careful consideration given to the circumstances of the case and the need for a comprehensive assessment before determining the appropriate punishment.