SHANE MORGAN FROM TELFORD CAUGHT IN INTERNET CHILD SEX STING
In February 2019, Shane Morgan, a 45-year-old man from Telford, was apprehended after attempting to groom a child online.The defendant was caught in an operation where a paedophile hunter, posing as a girl, engaged him in conversations.
Morgan believed he was chatting with a 13-year-old girl named ‘Ann Marie’ when he participated in the exchanges.
The online retaliatation escalated to graphic exchanges, culminating with Morgan sending a lewd video of himself.
Morgan, of Wildwood in Woodside, Telford, previously admitted to charges of attempting to intentionally communicate with a child and attempting to induce a child under 16 to watch sexual activity, covering the period from April 20 to 25, 2017.
During court proceedings, Mr.
Ian Ball, the prosecution, revealed that Morgan asked for images and requested that Mr.
Letts keep their conversations secret, warning him of potential trouble if he disclosed the interactions.
At Shrewsbury Crown Court on Friday, Judge Peter Barrie highlighted that although there was no actual victim, Morgan’s behaviour exhibited grooming tendencies, and the significant age difference between him and 'Ann Marie' was concerning.
The judge commented, “It is unlikely that this would have turned into contact offending, but it is a risk which can’t be ignored and that reflects on the future.” Defence barrister Mr.
Paul Smith noted that Morgan, who has no prior criminal record, had lost his home and employment due to his actions.
He argued for leniency, emphasizing that Morgan deserved a chance to rebuild his life through community sentences rather than custody.
Morgan was sentenced to six months in prison for each offence, suspended for 18 months.
His sentence includes requirements to complete 45 days of rehabilitation activities, including the Change programme, and 150 hours of unpaid community work.
He must also pay £135 in costs and a victim surcharge.
Both sentences are to run concurrently.
Additionally, Morgan is subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a Notification Order for seven years to monitor and manage any future risks.
