NIGEL FOX, FORMER RAF OFFICER, WINS RETURN OF LAPTOP, IPOD AND MOBILE PHONE IN GLOUCESTER

In March 2010, Nigel Fox, a former RAF Flight Lieutenant, is set to recover a laptop, iPod, and mobile phone that were confiscated by police. Judge Martin Picton ruled that Fox could have these items returned unless the prosecution presents valid reasons within 14 days. Fox, who resided on Cordingley Close, Churchdown, is currently serving a four-year prison sentence handed down in April the previous year for offenses related to grooming underage girls online. The judge described Fox as every "teenage girl’s parents’ nightmare".

During the hearing at Gloucester Crown Court, defense lawyer Christopher Smyth argued for the return of the devices, stating that none had been used in his client’s crimes. "I have been supplied with a list of items seized. None of them have been destroyed yet," Smyth explained. He highlighted particular items, such as an iPod Touch—a music device—and a laptop, asserting that Fox claims nothing of evidential value was found on them. Smyth added, "His Sexual Offences Prevention Order does not prevent him from using a laptop. He wishes to do so for educational and other reasons in the future."

Prosecutor James Haskell admitted uncertainty over whether the specific laptop in question had been involved in any criminal activity. However, Judge Picton pointed out that the crown had been given 14 days starting from May 11 of the previous year to compile a list showing which items had been used in the offending, and which should be destroyed. "It’s nearly a year later and you can't tell me about this laptop," the judge remarked. "The Sexual Offences Prevention Order is intended to prevent him from using devices that could pose a risk. Items can only be forfeited if they have been used in criminal conduct."

When Fox, 41, was sentenced last year, the judge emphasized that he posed a "significant risk" to young girls. Fox had pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including meeting a child after sexual grooming between October 24, 2007, and January 12, 2008, incitement to produce an indecent photograph of a child, arranging or facilitating child sex offenses, and inciting the making of such photographs. Authorities revealed that Fox communicated with his victims via text messages, persuading one girl to send images of herself in a bra and naked in front of a mirror.