THOMAS LEE PREDATORY PAEDOPHILE FROM BARNSTAPLE SENTENCED TO FIVE YEARS IN PRISON FOR GROOMING TEEN GIRLS

In August 2016, a disturbing case involving a local Barnstaple resident culminated in the sentencing of Thomas Lee, a 24-year-old man, to five years in prison for his involvement in grooming two 13-year-old girls through online platforms. The case, which was prosecuted at Exeter Crown Court, highlighted the dangers of online predators and the importance of safeguarding children from exploitation.

Thomas Lee, who resided at Rackfield in Barnstaple, faced serious charges after an investigation revealed his inappropriate communications with the two young girls. The court found him guilty of two counts of sexual activity with a child, while he was acquitted of a third charge related to an incident in a woodland area at Fremington, also in Barnstaple. Despite denying three counts initially, the evidence presented during the four-day trial proved sufficient for conviction on two counts.

During the proceedings, the court heard from the two girls, who recounted how they had initially made contact with Lee via Facebook. The girls, both aged 13 at the time, agreed to meet him in person after engaging in sexually explicit messages online. Their meetings, facilitated by Lee’s online advances, were part of a pattern of grooming that ultimately led to his conviction.

DC Louisa Sarney, the investigating officer, expressed her satisfaction with the outcome of the case. She described Lee as a “predatory paedophile,” emphasizing the serious nature of his actions. “It has been traumatic for the children involved,” she stated, acknowledging the bravery of the victims in standing up to Lee and providing evidence that led to his conviction. She also highlighted her hope that this case serves as a reminder to parents about the critical importance of online safety for children.

DC Sarney further criticized Lee for his dishonesty throughout the investigation, noting that he lied repeatedly and showed a lack of remorse for the harm caused. She pointed out that his persistent denial and false pleas of innocence only added to the distress experienced by the victims and their families. Her comments serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing risks posed by online predators and the need for vigilance in protecting young people from exploitation.