PAUL BUCKNALL CAUGHT IN CUMBERNAULD SEX OFFENDER STING INVOLVING CHILD ENDANGERMENT

In October 2021, a former police sergeant from Cumbernauld found himself at the center of a serious criminal case after being identified as a high-risk sex offender. The individual, Paul Bucknall, was subjected to an undercover police operation that uncovered disturbing online communications involving explicit and predatory content.

During the investigation, Bucknall engaged in sexually explicit conversations with two undercover officers who were posing as parents. These officers created fake profiles to lure potential offenders, and it was during these interactions that Bucknall's intentions and attitude became alarmingly clear. His messages included a shocking request to one of the officers, asking if she would like to 'share' a 10-year-old girl, a comment that underscores the severity of his intentions and the danger he posed.

Bucknall, aged 52 at the time, admitted guilt to two charges under the Communications Act. The offences took place between September and December 2019, with the incidents occurring at a police station in Glasgow and at his residence in Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire. The court proceedings revealed the disturbing nature of his online conduct, which was characterized as 'grossly offensive or of an indecent, obscene or menacing character.'

Glasgow Sheriff Court heard that Bucknall's messages were not only explicit but also indicative of a high risk of causing serious harm to children. Sheriff Allan McKay emphasized the gravity of the offences, noting that they were committed over a period of time and in locations that raised additional concerns. The court was informed that Bucknall lacked insight into the harmful effects of his actions and appeared to adopt a psychologically detached stance, which further heightened the risk he posed.

As part of his sentencing, Bucknall was ordered to complete 225 hours of unpaid community service and was placed under supervision. Additionally, he was placed on the sex offenders register for a period of two years and was restricted from having access to children under the age of 16. Despite these restrictions, he was permitted continued access to computer equipment, which must be available for inspection upon request.

The investigation revealed that Bucknall had joined the Chat Avenue website under the username 'Purdman50UK.' It was on this platform that he initiated contact with an undercover officer named 'Gemma,' who claimed to be the mother of a 10-year-old girl. Prosecutor Jennifer Sillars explained that Bucknall believed he was communicating with the child's mother and made highly graphic sexual comments, including stating he had no age limits and asking if Gemma would like to 'share' her with the child.

During the course of the investigation, Bucknall provided his real name, Paul, and shared his mobile number with the officer. Following the discovery of his online activities, authorities executed a warrant to raid his home. Bucknall was subsequently arrested and taken into custody. He chose to remain silent during police interviews, offering no comment in response to questions about his actions.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat online predatory behavior and protect vulnerable children from exploitation. Bucknall's actions and subsequent conviction serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals who seek to harm minors through digital platforms, especially those with a background in law enforcement.