REDRUTH MAN STEPHEN BROWN CAUGHT IN ONLINE GROOMING PLOT IN NEWQUAY

In a case that highlights the ongoing dangers posed by online predators, Stephen Brown, a 29-year-old resident of Canfield Terrace in Redruth, was caught in a sting operation orchestrated by local police. The operation was initiated after authorities uncovered evidence that Brown had been using the internet to groom a young girl for sexual activity.

Undercover officers, posing as a 13-year-old girl named Holly, engaged in conversations with Brown over a period of six days. During these exchanges, Brown was made aware that Holly was only 13 years old, yet he continued to pursue a sexual relationship with her through increasingly explicit messages. The police's strategic communication aimed to lure him into a trap, which ultimately succeeded when Brown arranged to meet Holly in Newquay.

Brown traveled to Newquay for the planned rendezvous, where he was promptly arrested by officers upon arrival. The investigation revealed that Brown had initially contacted the girl, claiming to be a disc jockey involved in a radio station, which piqued her interest. The girl, whose identity remains protected, had met Brown at his flat, where they watched a film together. Over the subsequent months, the two engaged in sexual activity approximately six times. It was nearly a year before the girl confided in her mother about the abuse, revealing that she had been suffering from nightmares and significant emotional distress as a result.

During the court proceedings at Truro Crown Court, Brown pleaded guilty to five charges related to sexual activity with a child and inciting a girl to engage in sexual acts. Prosecutor Iain White detailed the case, emphasizing the manipulative tactics Brown employed and the emotional harm inflicted on the young girl.

In his defense, lawyer Martin Pearce acknowledged Brown's lack of remorse but emphasized that this was reflective of his client's attitude. Pearce also highlighted that Brown had a history of good character prior to this incident.

Judge John Neligan sentenced Brown to a total of six years in prison. Additionally, the judge extended the period during which Brown will be on license following his release by three more years. The court also imposed several restrictions, including a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, a requirement for Brown to register as a sex offender indefinitely, and a prohibition from working with children under 18.

Judge Neligan condemned the case as yet another example of the perils faced by young girls in online chat rooms, calling for legislative action to better protect minors from such predatory behavior. He stated, “This girl has been left emotionally scarred. You groomed and manipulated her for your own sexual gratification.” The ruling underscores the serious consequences faced by those who exploit vulnerable minors through digital platforms.