DANGEROUS PAEDOPHILE DAVID SPENCER CAUGHT IN LANGLEY PARK PLOT AT HOLLYWOOD BOWL

In a disturbing incident that unfolded in July 2022, David Spencer, a 43-year-old man from Clifford Street, Langley Park, was caught attempting to meet a minor for sexual activity at Hollywood Bowl. The court proceedings revealed that Spencer had traveled to the popular entertainment venue with the explicit intent of engaging in sexual acts with a 14-year-old girl he believed he was communicating with online.

According to court records, Spencer arrived at Hollywood Bowl with a duvet and a blanket stashed in the back of his Mercedes Sprinter van, which he had prepared in anticipation of the meeting. He also carried two condoms in his wallet, indicating premeditation and intent to engage in sexual activity. The police were waiting for him when he exited his vehicle, and he was promptly arrested. During his arrest, Spencer immediately acknowledged the police presence by stating, “I know what this is about,” revealing his awareness of the situation.

Investigations showed that Spencer had been engaging in online conversations with an undercover officer, whom he believed to be a teenage girl. The communication had taken place over Kik messenger, where Spencer initially suggested meeting at Roseberry Topping. However, when the girl expressed concern that a walk might tire her out, they agreed to meet instead at Teesside Park. Throughout their exchanges, Spencer displayed grooming behavior, attempting to persuade the undercover officer that there was space in the back of his van for her to be comfortable. He also mentioned that it was always better to have a spare condom before asking about her day at school, further indicating his intentions.

Spencer, who has a prior conviction from 1999 for a driving offence, had been separated from his partner since the previous summer. His actions prompted immediate legal action, and he faced charges of attempting to meet a child following grooming. He pleaded guilty to these charges in court.

The judge overseeing the case highlighted the severity of Spencer’s conduct, noting that the presence of two condoms and bedding in his van demonstrated clear intent to have sexual intercourse. The court described his grooming behavior as insidious and appropriate for a custodial sentence. As a result, Spencer was sentenced to 10 months in prison. Additionally, he was subjected to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order, which prohibits him from having unsupervised contact with children. He is also required to adhere to a police notification order for the next decade, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities related to sexual offenses.