NELSON MAN PETER MAZZA SENTENCED FOR ONLINE SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING UNDERCOVER POLICE IN BURNLEY

In January 2014, a man from Nelson, identified as Peter Mazza, faced serious allegations related to online sexual misconduct involving an undercover police officer. The incident unfolded when Mazza, aged 31, engaged in a series of online chats over a span of nine days, during which he believed he was communicating with an 11-year-old girl. In these exchanges, he made explicit sexual comments and sent a sexually explicit photograph of himself, expressing a desire for her to reciprocate with similar images. Specifically, Mazza stated, "I wish you had some pictures to send back like mine I sent you. I hope you like it," revealing his inappropriate intentions and understanding of the situation.

Burnley Crown Court was informed that the police had set up an undercover operation after receiving intelligence about Mazza’s online activities. It was revealed that the messages he sent, which included solicitations for sexual contact and discussions about a first sexual experience, were not directed at a real child but were part of an investigation involving an officer posing as an 11-year-old girl. The court heard that the police had monitored Mazza’s online behavior, which included making sexual comments and requests over a period of nine days, before intervening.

In court, it was established that Mazza, who resides on Helmsdale Road in Nelson, had earlier admitted to attempting to incite a child under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity. The offenses took place between October 29 and November 13, 2012. Notably, Mazza had no prior criminal convictions, which was considered during sentencing.

As a result of his actions, Mazza was sentenced to 12 months in prison, but this sentence was suspended for two years. Additionally, he was placed under two years of supervision and mandated to participate in the Internet Sex Offenders’ Treatment Programme. The court also ordered him to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years and imposed a five-year Sexual Offences Prevention Order. This order restricts his access to the internet, allowing authorities to monitor his online activity, and prohibits him from having or seeking contact with any child under 16. Mazza is also barred from allowing children into his home.

Prosecutor Huw Edwards detailed that Mazza’s online conduct involved asking the supposed girl whether she wanted sexual contact and whether she had ever had a boyfriend, as well as discussing how it might feel for her to experience sexual activity for the first time. Following the investigation, police executed a search at Mazza’s residence in January 2013, seizing two laptops and a mobile phone. During the search, officers also discovered documentation related to his attendance at Camp America in the United States, where he previously worked as a guide. Mazza was subsequently interviewed by police but chose to make no comment.

Representing Mazza, lawyer Hugh McKee stated that his client did not pretend to be a teenager and was attempting to establish relationships with adult women. He emphasized that the case had caused Mazza significant stress and personal difficulties. However, Judge Beverley Lunt highlighted the complexities of the case, noting the absence of a clear sentencing guideline for such offenses, especially given that no actual victim was present and no physical meeting was arranged. She described the case as a "sentencing nightmare" and expressed concern over Mazza’s disturbing behavior, which she characterized as indicative of an "unhealthy sexual interest in young children." The judge underscored the seriousness of the conduct, despite the lack of direct harm or victimization in this instance.