STEPHEN BOOTH FROM TEWKESBURY CAUGHT IN ONLINE PREDATOR STING AT BROMSGROVE AND GLOUCESTER

In a disturbing case that unfolded in November 2020, Stephen Booth, a man originally from Tewkesbury and later residing on Oakland Grove in Bromsgrove, was caught in a sting operation conducted by a paedophile hunting group. The group had set up fake profiles of young girls aged thirteen in various internet chatrooms, aiming to expose individuals seeking to exploit minors online.

According to the court proceedings held at Gloucester Crown Court, Booth engaged with these fake profiles, initiating conversations that quickly turned inappropriate. Prosecutor Alun Williams detailed that Booth encouraged the 'girls' to perform sexual acts on themselves and even did the same himself in front of his webcam, demonstrating a clear intent to engage in illegal sexual communication with minors.

Once Booth's actions were exposed, the paedophile hunters confronted him directly, making him aware that he had been caught in their sting. They then contacted the police to ensure that law enforcement would take further action against him.

Booth, who pleaded guilty to four charges of attempting to engage in sexual communication with children during March and April of 2018, faced sentencing in front of Recorder James Waddington QC. The court heard that Booth's behaviour was serious but also considered his personal circumstances. The judge imposed a community order lasting three years, which included a requirement to participate in a 40-day programme and 30 days of rehabilitation activities aimed at addressing his behaviour.

In addition, Booth was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid community service and was required to pay costs amounting to £340. The court also mandated that Booth be listed on the sex offender register for five years and subject to a sexual harm prevention order for the same duration.

While the offences were deemed serious enough to warrant a custodial sentence of two years, the judge, Recorder Waddington, decided that a community-based order would serve society better. He explained that Booth's case was old, and he was currently employed and in a new relationship. The judge emphasized that the community order would allow for ongoing supervision and intervention, providing an opportunity for Booth to work with authorities over the next three years to reduce the risk of reoffending.

In his remarks, the judge highlighted the importance of rehabilitation and community management in such cases, stating, "It is better not just for you but for everyone else if I make a community order. There will be an opportunity for people to work with you for three years in order to minimise the chances of you offending in this way again."