A MAN has been sentenced to six years after pleading guilty to child sexual offences committed online.

Robert Evans, aged 33, appeared at Worcester Crown Court on Thursday, September 26.

Evans was arrested in March 2019 by West Mercia Police’s Online Child Sexual Exploitation Team as part of ‘Operation Safenet’.

Forensic examination of digital devices recovered from Evans identified that he had been using false social media accounts to target and befriend children.

Evans, from Malvern, incited children into sexual communications and online sexual activity which he recorded.

Officers have identified a number of victims but the investigation to trace a number of others remains ongoing.

Evans was also found to be in possession of indecent images of children including some in the most severe category.

Evans was charged with:

  • Three counts of making indecent photograph/pseudo-photograph of a child
  • Three counts of distributing an indecent photograph/pseudo-photograph of a child
  • One count of engaging in sexual communication with a child
  • Four counts of attempting to cause/incite a child to engage in sexual activity
  • One count for causing/inciting a child U13 to engage in sexual activity
  • One count for causing a child to watch a sexual act

He has also been registered as a sex offender and given an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Detective Chief Inspector Gavin Kinrade said: “Evans preyed on some of the most vulnerable members of our communities and has rightly been brought to justice today.

“He targeted children using false profiles on social media platforms and incited children to engage in sexual communications and activity which he recorded for his own sexual gratification.

“Whilst social media and the internet provide a wealth of positive opportunities children and parents need to be aware of the dangers and know how to spot signs of online child sexual exploitation.

I would encourage parents and guardians to take an active interest into who their children are talking to online.

“I would like to pay tribute to the painstaking work undertaken by my officers in dealing with this case and tracing a number of the children involved, and for the children’s bravery in coming forward to provide evidence of Mr Evans’ offending.”

He added: “I hope this will encourage other victims to speak out in order to gain the justice they deserve and prevent dangerous offending. We want victims to know that we will always treat their reports seriously.”

A National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) spokesman said: “Predators like Evans use false identities to stalk social media, searching for vulnerable victims to abuse.

“That’s why it is absolutely vital that social networks are forced to do everything they can to protect children on their platforms.

“They have made little progress in recent years - so it is imperative that the Government works swiftly to build on its bold and ambitious proposals and brings in legislation that will make the UK the safest place for children to be online.”

If you have been a victim of online sexual abuse, or are worried about someone you know being abused, please contact West Mercia Police on telephone 101.

Anyone who is a victim and feels they may need support, or may not want to contact the police can contact West Mercia Police's Victim Advice Line which is a free, independent and confidential support service. People can call 0800 952 3000 or visit www.victimadviceline.org.uk

Further advice and guidance for online safety can be also be found at GetSafeOnline campaign.