CHRISTOPHER JAMES FROM RHYMNEY CAERPHILLY CAUGHT IN PAEDOPHILE HUNTING SCHEME

In a case that highlights the dangers of online predators, Christopher James, a 46-year-old man from Rhymney, Caerphilly, was caught in a sting operation conducted by paedophile hunters. The operation involved the use of a fake Facebook account created to resemble that of a 14-year-old girl, which was used to lure potential offenders into revealing their intentions.

According to court proceedings, the decoy account was named 'Shelley' and remained inactive until July 18, when it received a friend request. It was at this point that Christopher James initiated contact, sending a message that read, “Hey babe, how are you?” to which the decoy responded, “I’m 14.” James then replied with a message that said, “You are so cute and sexy babe xxx.”

Further exchanges revealed James’s inappropriate intentions. 'Shelley' asked him, “Are you cool about me being 14? Some people call me a kid. It’s annoying.” In response, James expressed a desire to care for her and described her as a “lovely woman,” despite her age. He also made explicit comments, stating that he wished he was in bed with her, indicating his sexual interest.

Law enforcement officials, specifically Gwent Police, were alerted by the paedophile hunter group about the ongoing online activity. The police arrested James in July 2019, during which he admitted to the misconduct. During police interviews, James was candid, acknowledging that he liked children aged 13 and 14. He confessed that he used his phone to search for young girls online and admitted to making sexual comments, feeling nervous because he found Shelley attractive.

At Cardiff Crown Court, James pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual activity with a child. Prosecutor Laurence Jones detailed the case, emphasizing James’s responsibility for his actions and his awareness of their inappropriateness. James stated during the interview that he knew what he was doing was wrong and accepted full responsibility.

Judge Richard Twomlow addressed James directly, condemning his conduct and acknowledging his honesty during police questioning. The judge sentenced James to a two-year community order, which includes a requirement to complete a 30-day rehabilitation activity program. Additionally, James is mandated to pay a surcharge of £90, register as a sex offender for five years, and remain under a sexual harm prevention order until 2025. This case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and community groups to combat online child exploitation and protect vulnerable minors from predatory behavior.