KEVIN LACCOHEE CAUGHT IN BURY ST EDMUNDS BY PAEDOPHILE HUNTERS AT STOWMARKET RAILWAY STATION

In a significant case that highlights the ongoing efforts to combat online grooming and child exploitation, Kevin Laccohee, a 38-year-old man from Bury St Edmunds, found himself at the center of a police and vigilante operation designed to catch individuals attempting to meet minors for illicit purposes.

According to reports presented at Ipswich Crown Court, Laccohee had arranged to meet what he believed was a 15-year-old girl named ‘Amy’ at Stowmarket railway station in October of the previous year. The meeting was set up after Laccohee had engaged in online conversations with the girl, who was, in reality, a fictitious persona created by a group of self-styled paedophile hunters. These vigilantes had been monitoring the online interactions and had lured Laccohee into the trap, waiting for him at the designated location.

Prosecutor Richard Potts explained that Laccohee’s arrival at the station was met with immediate intervention. A group of individuals, acting as part of the vigilante operation, blocked his vehicle and called the police to report the incident. The court heard that Laccohee had initially believed ‘Amy’ to be 18 years old, but after being informed of her true age—15—he still proceeded to travel to Haughley in an attempt to meet her. However, on that occasion, he did not exit his car, indicating a continued intent to engage with the minor.

Laccohee ultimately pleaded guilty to charges of attempting to meet a child following grooming. His actions and subsequent admission led to a sentence of 12 months in prison, which was suspended for 18 months. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £500 in prosecution costs and was mandated to participate in a rehabilitation scheme aimed at addressing his behavior and preventing future offenses.

This case underscores the persistent threat posed by online predators and the importance of vigilant community efforts to protect minors from exploitation. The authorities continue to work closely with community groups and vigilantes to identify and apprehend individuals attempting to commit such crimes, emphasizing the need for ongoing awareness and preventative measures in the digital age.