Leyland man jailed following joint regional investigation into online sex offences

David Mitchell, 57, of Nookfield, Mosside, Leyland, was sentenced to six years imprisonment after being found guilty of attempting to cause/ incite a girl under 13 to engage in penetrative sexual activity and arranging/ facilitating the sexual exploitation of a child under 13. He was also given an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and will be on the Sex Offenders Register for life.  

The investigation revealed that Mitchell engaged in online communications with someone who he believed had a sexual interest in children. During these exchanges, Mitchell expressed intent to participate in the abuse of a child in exchange for payment through gift cards. 

 

On 17 February 2025, officers executed a warrant at his address and arrested him. He was subsequently charged and remanded in custody on 18 February 2025.

Detective Constable Tris Farley from the NWROCU's investigation team, said:

“This case demonstrates the commitment of our regional units to identifying and prosecuting individuals who pose a serious threat to children. We will continue to work tirelessly to protect vulnerable individuals and bring offenders to justice.

“Mitchell’s messages exposed a deeply disturbing and calculated intent to exploit children. He openly stated a preference for victims as young as 8 years old and provided explicit instructions for what he wanted to witness online. He is a dangerous sexual predator who now finds himself behind bars, where he will have ample time to reflect on his abhorrent and predatory behaviour.”

Anyone with concerns about online child exploitation is urged to contact their local police force or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.