SCOT WRIGHT FROM GAINSBOROUGH CAUGHT BREAKING SEX OFFENDER INTERNET BAN IN FACEBOOK SCANDAL

In January 2017, a serious breach of legal restrictions involving a registered sex offender from Gainsborough came to light when Scot Wright was found to have violated the conditions of his sex offender registration by creating and operating a Facebook profile under a false name.

Wright, aged 23 at the time, failed to inform the authorities about his online activity, which directly contravened the strict rules imposed on him. Between November 8 and November 23, 2016, he established a Facebook account using the alias 'John Forge,' a move that was uncovered during police investigations.

Prosecutor Jim Clare explained that in November 2016, an intelligence analyst from Lincolnshire Police conducted a targeted search on Facebook, aiming to trace the owner of a mobile phone number linked to the account. The investigation revealed that the account under the pseudonym 'John Forge' was, in fact, operated by Scot Wright. This discovery was significant because it demonstrated Wright’s deliberate attempt to conceal his online presence, despite the restrictions placed upon him.

Further details emerged during the proceedings at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court on January 30, 2017. It was revealed that Wright had a prior conviction for possessing extreme pornographic images, a conviction dating back to August 19, 2011. This history underscored the seriousness of his current breach and the ongoing concerns regarding his compliance with legal restrictions.

In his defense, Tony Freitas, representing Wright, argued that the Facebook account was created simply to maintain contact with family members. He emphasized that Wright’s intentions were not malicious but rather a means of personal communication. Freitas also noted that police had later discovered the account had been deleted, and that Wright had voluntarily attended the police station when asked to do so, demonstrating some level of cooperation.

Wright, who resides on Lea Road in Gainsborough, was previously subject to a comprehensive ban that prohibited him from using online technology altogether. Freitas acknowledged that Wright had struggled with adhering to this restriction, indicating ongoing difficulties in complying with the rules.

Chief Magistrate Jennifer James addressed the court, highlighting the gravity of the case. She pointed out that Wright’s record was extensive and serious, and that this was not his first breach. The magistrate also noted concerns raised by probation officers, indicating that Wright appeared to be making little progress in changing his thoughts and behaviors related to his offending.

As a result of the breach, the case was referred to Lincoln Crown Court for sentencing. Meanwhile, Wright was granted unconditional bail, allowing him to remain free until the next stage of legal proceedings.