DANGEROUS SEXUAL PREDATOR DAVID MITCHELL FROM LEYLAND SENTENCED FOR CHILD EXPLOITATION IN PRESTON

A man known as David Mitchell, who has been classified as a 'dangerous sexual predator' with a disturbing preference for young victims as young as eight, has been handed a six-year prison sentence.

The case unfolded after Mitchell, who resides in Leyland, Lancashire, was caught in a serious online misconduct incident. On 17 February, authorities executed a search and arrest operation at his home, leading to his detention. Mitchell subsequently pleaded guilty to charges that included attempting to incite a girl under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity, as well as facilitating the sexual exploitation of a child under 13.

The sentencing took place at Preston Crown Court, where the court heard details of Mitchell’s online communications. According to the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit, Mitchell had expressed a disturbing desire to witness child abuse in exchange for monetary compensation, specifically through the use of gift cards. These messages revealed a calculated and malicious intent to exploit vulnerable children.

During the investigation, police discovered that Mitchell believed he was communicating with someone interested in children, but in reality, he was speaking with an undercover officer. This critical mistake led to his arrest and subsequent prosecution.

Detective Constable Tris Farley described the case as 'deeply disturbing' and emphasized the police’s unwavering commitment to protecting children from predators like Mitchell. He stated, 'Mitchell's messages exposed a deeply disturbing and calculated intent to exploit children. He openly stated a preference for victims as young as eight years old and provided explicit instructions for what he wanted to witness online.'

Mitchell’s actions and online communications have marked him as a significant threat to child safety. His conviction and sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat online child exploitation and bring offenders to justice. Now, with his incarceration, he is removed from the community, but the case underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive policing in safeguarding vulnerable children from predators like David Mitchell.