JOHN POTTER FROM STROUD ESCAPES PRISON AFTER ONLINE GROOMING INCIDENT AT DURSLEY TRAIN STATION

In a case that has drawn significant attention, John Potter, a 38-year-old resident of Stroud, narrowly avoided a prison sentence after attempting to engage in inappropriate online conduct with a minor. The incident unfolded in January 2021 when Potter traveled to Dursley train station with the apparent intention of meeting a schoolgirl he had been communicating with through sexually explicit messages.

Unbeknownst to him, the individual he believed to be a young girl was actually a decoy operated by a paedophile hunting team known as ‘Our Team’. This group specializes in catching individuals attempting to exploit minors online. The court proceedings revealed that Potter’s interactions extended beyond the initial decoy; he was also in contact with a second decoy, whom he was actively grooming for sexual activity.

Despite the serious nature of his actions, the court decided against imposing a prison sentence. Instead, Potter was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of five years. Additionally, he was mandated to attend a rehabilitation course, which he must complete within 24 months. The case underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement and community groups to combat online grooming and protect minors from exploitation, especially in areas like Stroud and Dursley where such incidents have raised public concern.