EX-RED FUNNEL OFFICER MATTHEW PARKER ARRANGED TO MEET 13-YEAR-OLD BOY
Matthew Parker contacted a boy's online profile, expressing a desire to “kiss, cuddle and hold hands” after connecting with him on Grindr.He later purchased tickets for a trip to Thorpe Park.
However, the profile belonged to an adult operating on behalf of the paedophile hunter organization Child Safe UK, and the boy was a fake.
Parker, aged 41 and a former Red Funnell ferry crew member, was detained by law enforcement and admitted to attempting to facilitate a sexual offence against a minor.
At Southampton Crown Court last Thursday, Parker received a sentence that was suspended.
It was revealed that he initially initiated contact with the boy through Grindr, where his profile stated he was “only into young guys.” The discussion moved to Kik Messenger, where he sent inappropriate messages, including his desire to “kiss, cuddle and hold his hand,” but insisted they could do “nothing more.” Previously employed as a First Officer on Red Funnel, Parker was taken into custody in July last year after arranging to meet the young boy at Thorpe Park.
In his defense, it was mentioned that he had begun attending counselling following his arrest.
The judge remarked on the unusual nature of the case, noting that Parker did not attempt to promote sexual messages or solicit images, which is uncommon.
Now residing in Picket Twenty Way, Andover, after previously living in Holbury near Southampton, Parker was sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years.
He was also ordered to complete 55 days of rehabilitation, pay court costs of £600, and was placed under a sexual harm prevention order.
