ROBERT ANDREWS FROM ROMFORD SENTENCED FOR ATTEMPTED MEET WITH UNDERAGE BOY

A man with a background in law enforcement from Essex has been handed a prison sentence of two years after attempting to meet a minor he believed to be a young boy he encountered online. Robert Andrews, aged 65, was caught in the act of trying to arrange a sexual encounter, but the entire scheme was orchestrated by an online vigilante group that had deceived him.

Andrews’s actions took place in the context of a sting operation, where he believed he was communicating with a juvenile. Instead, he was interacting with members of an online group dedicated to exposing potential offenders. The court proceedings revealed that Andrews had a prior criminal record, including convictions related to possession of indecent images, which added weight to the seriousness of his latest offense.

The judge expressed concern over Andrews’s willingness to deceive and his attempt to engage in illegal activity, despite his previous convictions. The court emphasized the importance of protecting minors and maintaining strict consequences for those who attempt to exploit or harm them. Andrews’s sentencing reflects the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and vigilant online groups to combat online predatory behavior and ensure community safety in Romford and beyond.