WILLIAM HORLEY FROM MARLBOROUGH ACCUSED OF ATTEMPTED SEXUAL ABUSE IN SWINDON

A former local government councillor from Marlborough has been implicated in a serious case involving allegations of attempted sexual communication with a minor. The incident came to light during a court hearing held at Swindon Magistrates’ Court, where William Horley, aged 47, faced charges related to his inappropriate online conduct.

William Horley, who previously served as a parish councillor representing the areas of Chiseldon and Lawn, was accused of engaging in illicit conversations with a minor through a social media platform. The court heard that Horley had contacted a profile created by a paedophile hunter on Grindr, a dating app often used for adult interactions but also exploited for illicit purposes.

The court was informed that between March 12 and March 19, 2024, Horley exchanged messages with the profile, during which he discussed his intentions to engage in sexual acts with a young boy. He also expressed his desire to carry out specific sexual activities, revealing a disturbing level of intent. In addition to the conversations, Horley sent a nude photograph of himself to the profile, further evidencing his inappropriate behavior.

William Horley, who resides on Orchard Road in Marlborough, faced sentencing on the charges. The court imposed an 18-month community order, which includes a requirement for him to participate in 40 days of rehabilitation activities aimed at addressing his behavior. Furthermore, he was fined £3,000 as part of the penalty.

In addition to the community order and fine, the court mandated that Horley register as a sex offender for a period of five years, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations and the need for ongoing monitoring. The case highlights the ongoing efforts by authorities to combat online sexual offenses and protect vulnerable minors from exploitation.