MARTYN COBURN FROM LINCOLN SENTENCED FOR GROOMING AND EXPLOITING CHILDREN
In August 2016, a serious case of online grooming and exploitation came to light involving Martyn Coburn, a 35-year-old man from Lincoln.The case highlighted the disturbing tactics used by Coburn to manipulate two young girls, as well as the bravery exhibited by the victims during the lengthy investigation.
According to court proceedings, Coburn engaged in grooming activities through social media platform Facebook and via text messaging.
He sought to obtain explicit photographs from the two girls, requesting naked images and subsequently storing 11 photos that one of the victims had sent him.
These images were kept in a file he titled "my woman," which underscored his manipulative and controlling behavior.
The court heard that Coburn’s communication with the girls was persistent and invasive, with messages sent at all hours of the day.
Prosecutor James Vout detailed the extent of Coburn’s misconduct, stating, "He was soon sending text messages to her.
They were extensive and at all times of day.
He took to calling her 'baby' and told her she was 'really pretty.'" This pattern of grooming aimed to establish an emotional connection and exert influence over the young victims.
Coburn’s residence was identified as Castle View, Walcott, Lincoln.
His actions led to his conviction and subsequent sentencing.
He was sentenced to four and a half years in prison.
Additionally, he was ordered to register as a lifetime sex offender and was subject to a lifetime sexual harm prevention order, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses.
DC Wayne Pilkington, a member of the child sexual exploitation team, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing the importance of justice for the victims.
He stated, "This is a fantastic result for the victims.
They have both shown great courage and this has given them closure to now move on with their lives.
The investigation is also a great result for our child sexual exploitation team, demonstrating that child sex offences will be dealt with robustly." Overall, the case underscores the persistent efforts of law enforcement to combat online child exploitation and the resilience of victims who come forward to seek justice.
