SHAUN PARDON CAUGHT IN NORWICH ONLINE CHILD GROOMING PLOT
A man from Norwich has been exposed and confronted by paedophile hunters after attempting to groom a teenage girl through online messaging.Shaun Pardon, aged 54, believed he was communicating with a 13-year-old girl, but in reality, he was engaging with a decoy account created by adults dedicated to catching online child sex offenders.
Members of the vigilant group tracked him down at his residence in Norwich, where they confronted him in person.
The encounter was recorded on video and subsequently shared online, highlighting the dangers and ongoing efforts to combat online child exploitation.
According to the proceedings at Norwich Magistrates’ Court, Pardon had initiated contact with the decoy profile in December 2023.
His initial message, “hello gorgeous,” was followed by continued communication despite being explicitly told that the girl he was chatting with was supposedly only 13 years old.
Prosecutor Sarah Fiddy detailed that in other messages, Pardon had asked, “Do you want to play a sex game?” He also sent an explicit image of his genitals, even as the decoy account discussed her day at school and mentioned needing to go to bed early.
On multiple occasions, he requested to see her naked, demonstrating a clear intent to engage in sexual activity.
Pardon, who resides on Kingfisher Road in Sprowston, pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a minor over a period spanning from December 31, 2023, to January 19, 2024.
In addition to this charge, he admitted to possessing cannabis.
The footage of his confrontation shows him claiming, “I’m only talking to that one.
I talk to her now and again,” attempting to downplay his actions.
Despite this, he denied knowing the girl’s age, even when presented with evidence of various chat exchanges where she referenced her school, after-school clubs, and other details that clearly indicated her youth.
Deputy District Judge Charlotte Hart ordered a pre-sentence report to evaluate all sentencing options, including the possibility of immediate custody.
She cautioned Pardon, stating, “I do not rule out committing you to the crown court to be sentenced but that is not my starting point.
There is a very strong likelihood you will have to sign the sex offenders register.” His sentencing is scheduled for February 20.
