SCOTT GAUNT FROM PETERBOROUGH SENT SEXUAL MESSAGES TO 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL AND WAS JAILED
In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Peterborough, a local man named Scott Gaunt, aged 35, has been sentenced to prison after engaging in a series of inappropriate and illegal communications with a young girl.The incident took place over a span of several weeks, specifically from November 25 to December 17 of the previous year, during which Gaunt sent a series of sexual messages to the 12-year-old victim.
According to reports, Gaunt initiated contact with the young girl and engaged her in conversations that quickly turned inappropriate.
During these exchanges, he not only spoke sexually to her but also encouraged her to perform sexual acts on herself, which is a serious criminal offense involving exploitation of a minor.
At the outset of their communication, Gaunt falsely claimed to be 24 years old, prompting the girl to remark that he was twice her age.
In response, Gaunt expressed concern that his mother “would probably kill him” if she discovered their conversations, revealing a level of awareness about the illicit nature of his actions.
Authorities were alerted when intelligence reports indicated that the IP address used in the chat corresponded to an internet account registered in Gaunt’s name.
This evidence prompted a police investigation, culminating in a warrant being executed at Gaunt’s residence on January 18.
During the raid, officers arrested him on suspicion of attempting to cause or incite a child under 13 to engage in penetrative sexual activity.
Several electronic devices belonging to Gaunt were seized and sent for forensic analysis.
However, investigators found no illegal files or material on these devices, which initially appeared to complicate the case.
During police interviews, Gaunt admitted to being the author of the messages and acknowledged that he was aware he was communicating with a minor.
He expressed remorse, telling officers that he knew what he had done was wrong.
Despite this, the evidence against him was substantial enough to proceed with prosecution.
Gaunt appeared in court on August 18 at Peterborough Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to the charges.
His sentencing took place last week at Cambridge Crown Court, where he was sentenced to 28 months in prison.
Additionally, Gaunt was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of 10 years and was subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) for the same duration.
These measures are designed to monitor and restrict his activities following his release, aiming to protect the community from further harm.
