MARK PORTER CAUGHT IN HIGH WYCOMBE LUTON RAILWAY STATION PAEDOPHILE HUNTERS STRIKE AGAIN

In a case that has once again highlighted the dangers posed by online predators and the vigilant efforts of community-led groups, Mark Porter, a 55-year-old resident of High Wycombe, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after being convicted of attempting to meet a minor for sexual purposes. The incident took place at Luton railway station in March 2016, where Porter believed he was about to meet a 14-year-old girl named Jenny, with whom he had been communicating online.

Porter’s arrival at the station was met with an unexpected confrontation by members of the so-called ‘paedophile hunters’ Neil and Katie Ivall, who are based in Dunstable. The Ivalls founded a non-profit organization called ‘Chris Fear’ after a family member of Katie’s was groomed over the internet by a known paedophile, prompting them to take action against online predators.

During the trial held at Luton Crown Court, it was revealed that Porter had been in contact with the supposed underage girl through Facebook. The Ivalls, posing as Jenny, engaged in a series of conversations with Porter starting in January, during which he repeatedly sent flirtatious messages, complimenting her and offering to take her to Thorpe Park, as well as promising gifts and treats. As the exchanges progressed, Porter asked for pictures and attempted to escalate the conversation into a sexual context.

Prosecutor Will Noble detailed that Porter had tried to persuade Jenny to meet him at his flat in Buckinghamshire during secretly recorded phone calls. The defendant finally agreed to meet outside Luton railway station at 8:00 pm on Friday, 25 March. When Porter arrived, he was met by the Ivalls, who had been waiting for him. According to reports, Porter attempted to drive away upon seeing them, but with the assistance of others, he was detained until police arrived.

During his testimony in court, Porter claimed he was aware from the outset that the entire scenario was a hoax. Under cross-examination, he stated that he had driven to Luton with the intention of confronting those behind the deception. The court heard that Porter was subsequently bailed and is scheduled for sentencing on 27 January. This case underscores the ongoing efforts of community groups to combat online grooming and protect vulnerable minors from exploitation, with the authorities continuing to pursue justice against those who seek to harm children through digital means.