JOHN PATTISON FROM CHRISTCHURCH INVOLVED IN CHILD ABUSE PLOT AT BOURNEMOUTH AND BECOMES TARGET OF POLICE INVESTIGATION

In January 2018, a disturbing case emerged involving John Pattison, a man with ties to Christchurch, who was accused of engaging in heinous online activities aimed at exploiting children. Pattison, a long-standing paramedic and volunteer with the Bournemouth Air Scouts, was found to have used his time while on leave from his duties with the South Central Ambulance Service to participate in illicit online conversations.

Prosecutors revealed that Pattison, who resided on Mallow Close in Christchurch, had initiated contact with an individual he believed to be the father of a young girl. In reality, this person was an undercover police officer conducting an investigation into online child exploitation. Pattison allegedly used chatrooms to discuss and plan the abuse of children, including pretending to be his 'widowed wife' in these conversations, a tactic he reportedly employed on previous occasions.

The police investigation uncovered that Pattison had arranged to meet the undercover officer at a Sainsbury’s store, believing he would meet a man named John, along with John's wife and young daughter. During the court proceedings, it was stated that Pattison and the officer had exchanged messages discussing their desire to commit acts of child abuse.

When Pattison was arrested, authorities seized his laptop and mobile phone, which contained indecent images of children and other extreme pornographic material. Pattison, aged 44, admitted to possessing nine indecent photographs of children and one image classified as extreme pornography. During police interviews, he claimed that the images found on his devices had been sent to him by others and that he did not find such images sexually appealing. He also stated that he had attempted to report the images to authorities to help bring those responsible to justice.

During the court hearing at Bournemouth Crown Court, prosecutor Rob Welling emphasized Pattison’s engagement with the undercover officer, highlighting the disturbing nature of their conversations and Pattison’s intentions. The court was told that Pattison had previously engaged in similar online behavior, pretending to be his 'widowed wife' to lure potential victims, although he was not charged in connection with any offences involving 'John' or his family.

Defense lawyer Nick Robinson pointed out that Pattison had no prior criminal record and expressed remorse for his actions. He described Pattison as deeply ashamed and emotional, acknowledging the seriousness of his conduct.

Judge Brian Forster QC addressed Pattison directly, noting that his injury and subsequent time at home may have contributed to his online behavior. The judge remarked that Pattison had become 'addicted' to chatroom activity, which led to his appearance in court. During the hearing, Pattison was visibly distressed, clutching his chest and covering his face, but the judge acknowledged the support of his family.

In sentencing, Judge Forster ordered Pattison to complete a three-year community order, including a 60-day sex offenders' program. Additionally, Pattison was placed under a sexual harm prevention order and required to adhere to notification requirements for five years. The court’s decision reflected the gravity of his actions and the need for ongoing monitoring to prevent future offenses.