DONCASTER OFFENDER MARK HARRIGAN SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES
A Doncaster man accused of appalling sexual misconduct in front of an undercover police officer has been sentenced to four years in prison.Mark Harrigan, 35, of Halifax Crescent, pleaded guilty to charges of attempting to incite a girl under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity and attempting to carry out sexual acts in front of a minor.
Sheffield Crown Court was told that Harrigan engaged in online communication with someone he believed to be a 12-year-old girl, during which he performed sexual acts in her presence.
However, he was unaware that he was actually communicating with a police officer as part of an investigation led by South Yorkshire Police in collaboration with the South Wales Regional Organised Crime Unit.
Police have confirmed that no real-life victim was involved in the incident.
Police Constable Kevin Sibley from the Sheffield Reactive CID described the case as particularly sinister.
He stated, "This was a particularly sinister case and the strong sentence reflects the severity of his offending." He added, "This successful operation between South Yorkshire Police and the South Wales Organised Crime Unit ensured that Harrigan was brought to justice and highlights the extent of his depravity." Detective Constable Russell Jones from the South Wales Regional Organised Crime Unit emphasized the ongoing effort to protect children, saying, "This forms part of our continued priority to protect children from sexual exploitation by those who seek to do them harm.
Law enforcement operates across the internet, and we will relentlessly seek to bring to justice individuals who use online platforms to facilitate the abuse of children." He also urged victims and the public to report abuse, stating, "If anyone has been a victim of child sexual abuse, I urge you to contact your local police force via 101.
We will always follow up on reports, regardless of when they occurred.
Victims can speak confidentially with experienced investigators, and we can help connect them with support services." For those concerned about their own internet use or suspicious behavior, the Lucy Faithfull Foundation offers a free, anonymous, and confidential helpline called Stop It Now!
at 0808 1000 900, providing advice, support, and information.
