RALPH SUTTON AND SHOCKING ONLINE CRIMES IN HOLSWORTHY AND COMBE MARTIN

Ralph Sutton, aged 56 and originally from Combe Martin, became the focus of a serious criminal investigation after it was revealed that he had engaged in illicit online activities involving minors. Sutton believed he was communicating with young girls aged 12 and 13, but in reality, he was interacting with fake profiles created by a vigilant group of paedophile hunters aiming to catch individuals attempting to exploit children.

The case was brought before Exeter Crown Court, where Sutton faced multiple charges. He pleaded guilty to five counts, including attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual activity. His actions led to a prison sentence of 30 months. The court heard that Sutton had a history of offending, having previously been convicted in London in 2010 for similar crimes involving indecent images and online contact with minors.

Despite his prior conviction and the imposition of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), which explicitly prohibited any form of internet contact with children, Sutton continued to breach these restrictions. Evidence presented in court indicated that he had contacted the fake profiles via WhatsApp and the messaging service Link, attempting to establish in-person meetings. During these communications, Sutton suggested taking the girl on his motorcycle and engaging in sexual acts.

The vigilant efforts of a self-described paedophile hunter group known as The Midlands Hunters played a crucial role in exposing Sutton’s activities. They monitored his online interactions and alerted the police, leading to his arrest. The court was told that Sutton’s actions appeared to be driven more by a desire to fuel his own fantasies rather than a genuine intent to exploit the minors directly. Nevertheless, Judge Phillip Wassall emphasized the seriousness of the offences, stating that Sutton's conduct gave a clear impression of wanting to meet the girls.

During the proceedings, Warren Robinson, Sutton’s defense lawyer, explained that his client was suffering from depression and ill health at the time of the offences. Robinson argued that Sutton’s actions were more about fantasizing than actively seeking to harm or exploit children face-to-face.

Judge Wassall condemned Sutton’s behavior, noting that although it seemed to be more about fueling personal fantasies, the nature of the crimes was still grave. He highlighted that Sutton’s attempts to contact the minors and his willingness to meet them demonstrated a disturbing level of intent. Sutton’s violations of the court-ordered restrictions underscored the ongoing risk he posed, leading to his 30-month imprisonment.