MICHAEL PAYNE FROM STEVENAGE AND WELWYN GARDEN CITY JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES AGAINST TEENAGER

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Stevenage and Welwyn Garden City, Michael Payne, a 38-year-old teacher, was sentenced to 15 months in prison for engaging in inappropriate and sexual conduct with a minor. Payne, who held the position of head of music at Sherrardswood School in Welwyn Garden City, was found guilty of multiple serious charges related to his online interactions with a 15-year-old boy.

According to court proceedings, Payne initiated contact with the teenager via the internet, using the pseudonym “Herts Happyman” when the boy logged onto his home computer on June 6 of the previous year. The court heard that Payne’s initial approach was seemingly casual, as he claimed to be a young man named Steve working in computer shops and claimed to be between 16 and 22 years old. Despite the boy’s suspicion and his request for Payne to leave him alone, the conversation quickly took a disturbing turn.

Ms. Isabel Delamere, representing the prosecution, detailed how Payne made indecent suggestions, including references to oral and anal sex, which caused the boy to become upset and question Payne’s intentions. The teenager’s brother saw the messages and advised him to block the contact, which he did. However, Payne persisted by sending an email from the same pseudonym, further escalating the situation.

Initially, the boy thought the messages might be a prank by someone at school, but Payne later apologized and claimed he wanted to talk. During a phone call, Payne insisted that it was all a joke. When the boy threatened to involve the police, Payne broke down crying and expressed suicidal thoughts, saying he intended to kill himself.

Payne’s arrest came on June 11, and during police interviews, he chose not to comment. A forensic examination of his home computer revealed the presence of child pornography files, which significantly contributed to the severity of his sentencing. During his trial in February, Payne claimed that he had only asked the boy if he was gay and insisted that the images found on his computer were not his own but created by others.

Defense lawyer Ms. Kate Davey highlighted that Payne had received numerous positive references and acknowledged that he had issues with his attitude towards teenage boys. Despite this, the court imposed strict penalties, including an extended license period of 21 months following his release and a ten-year registration on the sex offenders register. Additionally, Payne was banned from working with children in any capacity.

Judge Findlay Baker QC emphasized the gravity of Payne’s actions, underscoring the importance of protecting minors from such predatory behavior. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by online interactions and the need for vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable young people.