NICK BARTHRAM FROM STOCKPORT JAILED IN FLORIDA FOR ONLINE CHILD SEX OFFENSES

In a disturbing case that highlights the dangers of online predators, Nick Barthram, a man originally from Stockport, has been sentenced to prison in the United States after attempting to engage in sexual activities with a minor. The incident took place in Sarasota County, Florida, where Barthram was living at the time.

Barthram, aged 36, appeared before Sarasota County Court to face charges related to his online conduct. The court sentenced him to one year in prison, followed by an additional four years of probation. The judge, Judge Roberts, emphasized the seriousness of the offense and the need for strict supervision during the probation period.

His arrest was part of a broader operation conducted by the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, which targeted online predators. During this sting, authorities set up a fake profile of a 15-year-old girl named Kelly, to lure individuals seeking to exploit minors. The operation involved an undercover agent posing as a teenage girl, engaging in sexually explicit exchanges with suspects over the internet.

Barthram was among 31 individuals apprehended during this operation. According to official reports, he had been communicating with the undercover agent, believing he was speaking to a 15-year-old girl. The affidavit states that Barthram initially contacted the girl online and, upon being informed of her age, responded with the remark, “I have never been with anyone underage.”

Later that same day, Barthram traveled from his residence on Mandez Drive in Sarasota to what he believed was Kelly’s house, only to be arrested by law enforcement officers. The sheriff’s office confirmed that all suspects responded to online advertisements and engaged in sexually explicit written and verbal communications, attempting to arrange meetings with minors.

Sheriff Tom Knight issued a warning about the tactics used by online predators, stating, “Predators establish contact with kids through chat rooms, instant messaging, and discussion boards. The anonymity of the internet allows these criminals to seem like caring individuals, but they’re only looking for vulnerable victims. Parents, you have to be your child’s protector and monitor what they’re doing online.”

It is understood that Barthram, who was sentenced in April, has already served the time in custody awaiting his court appearance and has since been released from prison. His case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by online predators and the importance of vigilance in protecting minors from exploitation.