DANIEL PLATTEN SENTENCED FOR ONLINE PREDATION IN MABLETHORPE AND SUTTON ON SEA

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the local communities of Mablethorpe and Sutton on Sea, Daniel Platten, a 23-year-old man, was sentenced to 12 months in prison on Monday, August 3. The court heard how Platten engaged in a disturbing online relationship with a 13-year-old girl, encouraging her to send explicit photographs of herself via social media platforms.

According to court records, Platten, who was employed at a bar in Sutton on Sea, initiated contact with the young girl through Facebook. The interactions quickly escalated to exchanges of explicit images on Snapchat, with Platten reportedly beginning the communication by “winking” at the girl before engaging in more explicit conversations. Prosecutor Stephen Coupland detailed that Platten was aware of the girl’s age but continued to maintain regular online contact, which raised serious concerns.

Mr. Coupland explained that Platten sent the girl nude photographs of himself, and in return, she sent him five or six mirror selfies depicting her naked. The situation came to light when the girl confided in her school friends about the exchanges, prompting further investigation. Despite the mounting concerns, Platten remained silent when questioned by police authorities about his actions.

During the court proceedings, a victim impact statement was read aloud. The girl, who cannot be named for legal reasons, expressed her feelings of hurt and betrayal. She stated, “I was a teenager, he was a grown-up,” highlighting the emotional damage caused by Platten’s misconduct.

Daniel Platten, of Sandringham Drive, Mablethorpe, pleaded guilty to a charge of causing a 13-year-old girl to be involved with pornography. His actions have been deemed a serious offense, and the court’s judgment reflects the gravity of his misconduct.

Judge John Pini QC delivered the sentence, emphasizing the severity of the case. He remarked, “This is a very serious offence. You were 23 at the time you were contacting this young girl,” underscoring the breach of trust and the potential harm inflicted on the minor involved.