HAILSHAM MAN DAVID PUTTOCK SENTENCED TO FOUR YEARS FOR ONLINE SEX OFFENCES INVOLVING CHILDREN

In a significant case that has shocked the community of Hailsham, David Puttock, a 47-year-old resident of Gournay Road, was handed a four-year prison sentence after admitting to multiple serious online sex offences. The sentencing took place at Lewes Crown Court on Wednesday, May 18, with Puttock appearing in custody to face the consequences of his actions.

Prior to the sentencing, Puttock had pleaded guilty during an earlier hearing to eight separate charges related to the creation and distribution of indecent images of children. Additionally, he admitted to attempting to incite a 14-year-old girl to engage in sexual activity through online communications. These offences highlight a disturbing pattern of predatory behavior involving minors and the exploitation of digital platforms.

The investigation that led to Puttock’s arrest was conducted by the Sussex Police Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT). Authorities executed a search warrant at his residence, where they seized his computer equipment for forensic analysis. The police revealed that their examination uncovered a substantial collection of indecent images and videos depicting children, which Puttock had not only stored but also shared online, further exacerbating the severity of his crimes.

Furthermore, law enforcement officials discovered evidence suggesting Puttock had been in contact with an individual he believed to be a 14-year-old girl. Although this person was never identified, police believe Puttock was actively attempting to persuade her to perform indecent acts via the internet. This element of the case underscores the dangerous and manipulative nature of his online activities.

As a result of his convictions, Puttock will be registered as a sex offender for life. Additionally, upon completion of his four-year sentence, he will be subject to a three-year extended licence supervision period, during which authorities will monitor his activities to prevent any further offending. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat online exploitation and protect vulnerable minors from predatory individuals like Puttock.