ALL AREAS SEX OFFENDER STEPHEN BROWN FROM SWINDON STILL AT LARGE, POLICE APPEAL

In August 2011, authorities issued a public appeal seeking assistance in locating Stephen Brown, a convicted sex offender with connections to all areas, including Swindon. Brown, aged 47 at the time, remains at large despite extensive efforts by law enforcement agencies to find him.

Brown's criminal history dates back to June 2006 when he was convicted at Coventry Crown Court of engaging in sexual activity and grooming a female under the age of 16. Following his conviction, he was sentenced to serve two and a half years in prison. Additionally, he was placed under a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), a legal measure designed to restrict his activities and monitor his behavior to prevent further offenses.

In May 2010, Wiltshire Police detained Brown on suspicion of breaching the conditions of his SOPO. He was subsequently released on police bail while investigations into his activities continued. However, shortly after his release, authorities received credible information indicating that Brown had left the residence in Swindon where he was staying. This prompted a thorough investigation into his whereabouts, which has since become a priority for law enforcement.

Extensive inquiries have been conducted both nationally and internationally. These efforts included interviews with Brown’s family members and known associates, financial investigations, and intelligence gathering. The police also coordinated with Interpol and circulated a wanted notice through the police national computer system. Despite these comprehensive measures, Brown’s location remains unknown, and authorities are now appealing directly to the public for assistance.

Acting Detective Inspector Mike Selbie of Wiltshire Police issued a statement emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. He said, “I am appealing for anyone who knows where Stephen Brown is to contact me. We have received information suggesting he could be in Portugal, but so far, our inquiries with the relevant authorities have not confirmed this.”

He further explained that under the Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA), sex offenders like Brown are subject to regular supervision, which includes informing police of any change of address. “Clearly, Stephen has failed to do this,” DI Selbie noted. “I would like to take this opportunity to appeal directly to him, as it’s crucial that he understands the gravity of breaching his registration requirements and his SOPO. I urge him to contact the police immediately.”

He also highlighted the potential risks associated with an unlocated sex offender, stating, “Whenever a convicted sex offender cannot be traced, there is an increased risk of reoffending. While we have no specific evidence that he has committed further crimes, it is vital that we do everything possible to find him.”

Members of the public with any information about Stephen Brown’s current whereabouts are encouraged to contact A/DI Mike Selbie at Wiltshire Police by calling 0845 408 7000 or to reach out anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. Authorities stress that any tip, no matter how small, could be instrumental in ensuring public safety and bringing Brown into custody.