DAVID GREGORY FROM DAVENTRY SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES AFTER ONLINE PREDATION IN NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

In July 2012, a disturbing case of online child exploitation unfolded involving David Gregory, a 39-year-old man from Daventry, Northamptonshire. Gregory's heinous actions came to light after he engaged in a series of predatory communications with a young girl, who was only 12 years old at the time.

It all began when Gregory, who had been in contact with the girl through the popular video-sharing platform YouTube, sent her inappropriate messages shortly after she uploaded a harmless video of herself and friends dancing to Michael Jackson. The girl’s video was a simple, innocent display of her enjoying a dance routine, but it became the catalyst for Gregory’s sinister approach.

Within just five minutes of her posting the video, Gregory reached out to her via email, initiating a conversation that quickly turned sexual in nature. The man sent her explicit messages, including a photograph of his genitals, and continued to pursue her through online chats. The girl, unaware of his true identity, was subjected to a disturbing exchange that involved discussions about sex and requests for explicit pictures and webcam interactions.

Fortunately, the girl’s mother discovered the inappropriate messages when she found her daughter at the computer. Concerned and alarmed, she immediately contacted her husband, who took it upon himself to investigate further. The stepfather, acting swiftly, managed to persuade Gregory to appear on a live webcam session. During this encounter, he captured screenshots of Gregory’s face and the explicit content he was sharing. These images and recordings became crucial evidence for the police.

Police investigations quickly identified Gregory, aided by a distinctive tattoo he had, which was visible in the images. Authorities also uncovered a collection of indecent images of children at Gregory’s residence, located in Golding Close, Daventry. The material found was of the most depraved nature, including videos and photographs depicting children engaged in sexual acts.

Gregory was arrested and subsequently charged with multiple child sex offenses. He admitted to charges including inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, attempting to engage in sexual activity in the presence of a child, and making indecent images of children. His actions led to his conviction and sentencing at Oxford Crown Court.

During the court proceedings, Gregory’s defense, represented by Sophia Wood, highlighted his remorse and explained that he was suffering from low self-esteem and feelings of isolation at the time of the offenses. It was also noted that Gregory had a prior conviction from 1991 for indecent exposure, adding to the gravity of his current crimes.

Judge Julian Hall delivered a stern sentence, condemning Gregory’s behavior. He stated, “Within a few minutes of his step-daughter posting an innocent dance routine on the net, you’re chatting her up, encouraging her to play with herself, and showing her your erect penis. You also used the internet to download pornographic images.” The judge acknowledged Gregory’s depression but emphasized his outrage at the defendant’s conduct.

As part of his sentence, Gregory was sentenced to two years in prison. Additionally, he will be registered on the sex offenders’ register for seven years and will be subject to indefinite restrictions on internet use, which must be supervised at all times. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking online and the importance of vigilance among parents and guardians to protect children from predators.