DALE HANSON FROM BURY ST EDMUNDS CAUGHT IN FELIXSTOWE PUB CAR PARK BY PAEDOPHILE HUNTERS

In December 2017, a disturbing incident unfolded in Felixstowe involving Dale Hanson, a man from Bury St Edmunds, who became the subject of a live-streamed sting operation conducted by vigilant online groups targeting potential predators. Hanson’s confrontation took place in the parking lot of the Owl and Pussycat pub, where he believed he was meeting an 11-year-old girl for illicit purposes.

Hanson, aged 37, was present at South East Suffolk Magistrates’ Court in Ipswich, where he appeared to face serious allegations. He sat quietly in the dock with his head bowed as the court was informed of his actions between June 31 and July 19 of that year. Prosecutor Wayne Ablitt outlined that Hanson had engaged in online communication with what he believed was an underage girl, under the alias 'Sam.'

It was revealed that the online profile Hanson responded to was created by members of a vigilante group operating as paedophile hunters. The group had set up fake profiles of girls under 16, including the one Hanson contacted. The profile, which appeared to be for an 11-year-old girl, was actually managed by Daniel Cook, a member of the group. Hanson’s responses included sexually explicit messages, and he eventually arranged to meet 'Sam' in person.

The meeting was scheduled at the Felixstowe pub, where Hanson arrived in his vehicle. Instead of meeting a young girl, he was confronted by Daniel Cook and three other members of the vigilante group. The entire encounter was streamed live on social media, capturing the moment Hanson was caught in the act.

Police seized Hanson’s phone and examined the message exchanges, which provided evidence of his intent to engage in sexual communication with a minor. Following this, Hanson was formally charged with attempting to communicate with and engage in sexual activity with a child. He admitted guilt during a hearing on November 20, but the case was adjourned to allow for a pre-sentence report to be prepared by the probation service.

As the case moves forward to Crown Court, Hanson’s legal representative, David Allan, did not offer immediate mitigation. Instead, arguments will be presented before a judge at a later date. Hanson was released on conditional bail pending sentencing at Ipswich Crown Court.

Magistrates concluded that the severity of the offence warranted a hearing at the higher court, emphasizing the serious nature of the allegations and the need for a comprehensive judicial review.