JUSTIN WRIGHT FROM HENLEAZE INVOLVED IN CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN BRISTOL

In June 2019, a disturbing case emerged involving Justin Wright, a man residing in Wellington Hill House, Henleaze, who became entangled in a serious online child abuse investigation. The incident began when Wright engaged in a sexualized conversation with what he believed was a young girl aged 12, but in reality, he was communicating with undercover police officers.

Wright’s inappropriate online behavior was flagged after his messages were scrutinized on a messaging platform. Authorities quickly identified his actions as potentially criminal, leading to his arrest. During questioning, Wright claimed he believed he was speaking to an adult and was unaware that the person he was chatting with was an undercover officer posing as a minor.

He subsequently pleaded guilty in Bristol Crown Court to charges of attempting to engage in sexual conversation with a child and possession of an indecent image of a child. The court heard that Wright, aged 37, had sent a lewd photograph of his private parts to the undercover officer, who was pretending to be a 12-year-old girl. The police investigation revealed that Wright had also made explicit suggestions and asked the 'girl' to send him a provocative picture in exchange for one of his own.

During the online exchange, Wright mentioned that he did not have a camera available, to which he responded, “Unlucky, I think you are too young anyway,” indicating a disturbing awareness of the girl’s age. He further made lewd comments and claimed to have had sexual relations with a 14-year-old girl, and stated that his girlfriend was 16. These revelations added to the severity of his actions.

Following his online misconduct, police traced his address and arrested him. A search of his computer equipment uncovered an indecent image of a child, classified under Category C, indicating a low level of abuse. Wright maintained during police interviews that he believed he was communicating with a man online and that his actions were attempts to catch the individual he thought was a predator. He insisted he had no sexual interest in children.

In sentencing, Mr. Ignatius Hughes QC, the presiding judge, handed Wright a 24-month community order, which includes participation in a sex offender treatment program. The judge emphasized the gravity of Wright’s actions, stating, “At 37, a father in a relationship, you have brought disgrace upon yourself.” He acknowledged Wright’s difficult personal circumstances but underscored the importance of accountability.

Additionally, Wright was subjected to a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order designed to prevent any future offending. The court’s decision reflects the serious concern over his conduct and the need to protect children from potential harm in the future.