Man jailed for four years following joint NEROCU investigation

A man has been sentenced following a joint investigation by Cleveland Police and the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU).

James Stoddart from Middlesbrough was charged with a number of offences which occurred between September and November last year.

He was charged with attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, arranging or facilitating the commission of a child sex offence, two counts of breaching a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) and possession of a Class B drug.

The 42-year-old appeared at Teesside Crown Court on where he pleaded guilty to all offense.

He appeared at the same court on Friday 19^th July where the judge sentenced him to four years in prison.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Barnes from the Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT) said: “As a force, we’re committed to protecting children from harm and apprehending dangerous predators. Our partnership work with NEROCU is a crucial part of this.

“I’d like to make it clear that if you are carrying out online offences against children; you will be caught, it is only a matter of time before we bring you to justice.

“Children and young people should always be extra vigilant when talking to people online. If you have any concerns about someone you’re talking to then please tell a parent or friend or report it directly to police.”

Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Steve Barrow, said: “This is another great example of police partners working together to protect children from predators like Stoddart.

“This type of work will not stop here and under the banner of Operation Sentinel we will continue to work with our partners to tackle online child abuse and sexual exploitation and would urge anyone who has been a victim of this type of offending, or has concerns about someone’s behaviour, to come forward and talk to police.”