MORGAN TRUEMAN

Morgan Trueman contacted a fabricated social media profile created by adults in November 2023, which was designed to deceive users.

He was shortly informed that the profile depicted a 13-year-old girl.

At Newcastle Crown Court, it was heard that Trueman, who pretended to be a teenager himself, initially claimed he only wanted friendship.

The conversations included sharing pictures of his dog and talking about food.

Prosecutor Neil Jones described how the chat became sexualized, with Trueman requesting she perform sexual acts and suggesting he would teach her about such activities when they met.

He traveled to Sunderland train station on December 28, 2023, intending to meet the girl but was intercepted by police.

He initially admitted to intending a sexual meeting but later said he had changed his mind, claiming poor signal on the train prevented him from contacting her.

The defendant, aged 26 and residing in Highfield Manor, Usworth, Washington, admitted to attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual acts, grooming a minor with the intention of meeting for sexual purposes, and communicating sexually with a child.

Defence counsel Jane Foley explained Trueman’s difficulties, including ADHD and possible autism.

She stated he faces social isolation and requires assistance with daily life.

Judge Ian Mularkey pointed out that these issues have limited effect on his guilt, highlighting that he lied about his age and urged the girl to delete shared images, indicating awareness of his wrongdoing.

The judge expressed optimism about his potential for rehabilitation with proper support.

Trueman was sentenced to 24 months in prison, suspended for 18 months, with added requirements for rehabilitation.

He must also register on the sex offenders register and follow a sexual harm prevention order for ten years.

LINK TO STING - https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=612213461812131