PAUL WALKLING FROM GOSBERTON JAILED FOR ATTEMPTED MEET WITH 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN WALES

In a case that has shocked the local community of Gosberton and beyond, Paul Walkling, a 40-year-old registered sex offender, has been sentenced to 54 months in prison for attempting to meet a 14-year-old girl in Wales with the intent of engaging in sexual activity. Walkling’s criminal history includes a previous conviction in 2010 related to offences involving indecent images of children, which led to his being subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order and mandatory Notification Requirements under the Sexual Offences Act.

According to reports, the incident took place in 2019 when Walkling made contact with the young girl, who was only 14 years old, through online communication. His goal was to arrange a meeting for sexual purposes, prompting concern among authorities and community members alike. Demonstrating a willingness to travel, Walkling journeyed from his home in Lincolnshire to Wales with the apparent intention of meeting the girl in person.

However, his plans were thwarted when he was confronted by a ‘Paedophile Hunter’ upon his arrival in Wales. The vigilant individual, who monitors online interactions for potential predatory behavior, captured evidence of Walkling’s intentions and actions. This evidence was subsequently handed over to Dyfed-Powys Police, who coordinated with Lincolnshire Police to build a case against him.

Following the exchange of information, law enforcement officers from Lincolnshire executed warrants at Walkling’s residence on November 28. He was promptly arrested that evening and charged with attempting to meet a minor for sexual purposes. The suspect was remanded into custody and appeared before Lincoln Crown Court on January 10, 2020, where he pleaded guilty to the charges.

His sentencing, which followed the guilty plea, resulted in a prison term of 54 months. The case underscores the ongoing efforts of police and community groups to combat online grooming and protect vulnerable minors from exploitation. The community of Gosberton and surrounding areas are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future.