JONATHAN ALFORD OF EXETER SENTENCED OVER CHILD SEX OFFENCES AND GROOMING CASE
In October 2017, Jonathan Alford, now residing on Lower Wear Road in Countess Wear, Exeter, was released from custody.He had been previously convicted of serious sexual offences involving minors.
In July 2014, Alford, a 33-year-old man, was sentenced to over seven years in prison for grooming a schoolgirl for sex and related offences.
During the trial at Exeter Crown Court, it was revealed that Alford attempted to mislead authorities by creating a Facebook profile in the victim’s name, claiming she had fabricated her allegations.
Alford was found with images depicting child abuse and bestiality on his computer and later confessed to being attracted to underage girls.
He pleaded guilty to six counts of sexual activity with a child, seven counts of making or possessing indecent images of children, three counts of possessing extreme pornography, and one count of perverting the course of justice.
Judge Phillip Wassall sentenced him to a total of seven years and three months.
The judge stated: “You had a sexual interest in 15-year-old girls and began grooming this victim, sending her very explicit texts.
You took two indecent images of her and stored images on your computer that depicted extremely serious abuse of children.
Your attempt at perverting the course of justice involved creating a Facebook page suggesting the girl had lied about her allegations, which led to her re-interview and increased trauma for her and her family.” Prosecutor Mr.
James Taghdissian described how the girl’s relationship with Alford started around 2010 when she was 15, and her family later noticed changes in her behavior.
The victim told police about engaging in various sexual activities with Alford, despite knowing they were wrong.
Investigations uncovered images on Alford’s computer, although he initially denied any involvement until he was confronted in court.
Defense lawyer Mr.
Rupert Taylor argued that the relationship was consensual, stating: “He found her attractive, was flattered by her attention, and she was enthusiastic and willing in what she was doing.” In June 2014, Alford had already admitted to having sex with the schoolgirl and downloading extreme images.
He also pleaded guilty to providing a false document to police during their investigation.
During the court hearing, a woman in the gallery shouted abuse at him and was restrained.
Alford faced multiple charges, including sexual activity with a minor, possession and distribution of indecent images, and possessing extreme pornography involving animals.
He also admitted attempting to pervert the course of justice by submitting a fabricated document between September 2011 and February 2012.
Judge Barry Cotter, QC, granted him conditional bail to prepare for sentencing.
Following his pleas, the court ordered Alford to register as a sex offender immediately.
The case was then adjourned for pre-sentence reports, emphasizing the serious nature of his crimes and the need for ongoing monitoring.
