DANNY WRIGHT FROM WINKLEIGH SENTENCED AFTER SEX OFFENDER INCIDENT IN EXETER

In February 2021, a disturbing case emerged involving a man from Winkleigh who was found guilty of engaging in inappropriate and illegal online communications with a minor. The individual, identified as Danny Wright, had targeted a 14-year-old girl through social media platforms, specifically Snapchat and WhatsApp, in an attempt to coerce her into sending explicit images.

Wright, who was 22 years old at the time, falsely claimed to be a 16-year-old schoolboy to gain the girl’s trust and lower her defenses. His messages started off with seemingly innocent exchanges but quickly escalated into aggressive and inappropriate demands. When the girl refused to send images of herself in underwear, Wright’s tone became more forceful, insisting she pose completely naked. His persistent harassment caused significant distress to the young girl, who was understandably frightened by his behavior.

Realizing the severity of the situation, the girl confided in her mother, who then contacted the police. It was later revealed that Wright was actually 22, not the 16 he had claimed, and this fact was confirmed during the investigation. The incident had a profound impact on the girl’s mental health; she began missing school and required assistance from the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMS) to cope with the trauma.

Wright was brought before Exeter Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to charges of sexual communication with a child. As part of his sentencing, he was ordered to participate in a sex offenders’ treatment program and to complete 35 days of rehabilitation activities. These measures were included in a three-year community order designed to monitor and rehabilitate him.

Furthermore, the court imposed a five-year restraining order, prohibiting Wright from any further contact with the victim. He was also placed on the sex offenders’ register for the same period, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities. Judge Peter Johnson warned Wright that any breach of these orders or failure to complete the treatment program could result in a prison sentence.

During the sentencing, Judge Johnson emphasized the damaging effect Wright’s actions had on the victim’s development. He referenced her impact statement, which detailed the emotional and psychological toll of the incident. The judge also noted that the girl had been referred to CAMS for support.

Prosecutor Caroline Bolt explained that Wright initially made contact with the girl in June 2019 after seeing her picture on Snapchat. He falsely claimed to be 16, and when the girl checked his WhatsApp profile, he lied by saying it was his brother’s account. Wright’s messages included explicit language, such as expressing that he was 'really horny for you,' and he repeatedly asked for selfies in underwear. When the girl refused, he became angry and demanded nude photographs, which she also refused to send.

This case highlights the dangers of online grooming and the importance of vigilance when interacting with minors on social media platforms. The court’s decision aims to protect the victim and prevent Wright from causing further harm in the community.