PAUL BURRAGE

A man from Berkshire has received a three-year prison sentence after being found guilty of child sex crimes.

The conviction followed an investigation carried out by the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU).

Paul Burrage, who resides on Curridge Road in Thatcham, was sentenced at Reading Crown Court on Tuesday (2/9).

Burrage, aged 66, started communication with what he believed to be a 13-year-old girl on Snapchat on July 2 of this year.

During their exchanges, he sent multiple explicit photos and videos of himself and discussed her wearing her school uniform, urging her to undress and send photos in return.

He arranged to meet her at Merstham Railway Station in Surrey with the plan of taking her to her home to engage in sexual activity.

On July 21, Burrage traveled from Berkshire to the station and tried to contact her to meet up.

Instead, he was met and arrested by SEROCU officers who charged him.

On August 26, Burrage appeared in court, where he admitted to charges including planning a child sexual offence, attempting sexual communication with a minor, inciting a child to commit a sexual offence, and trying to encourage a child to watch sexual acts.

Investigating officer Colin Haynes from SEROCU commented that Burrage's messages clearly revealed his sexual interests and intentions.

Although no victims were harmed, his actions indicate he poses a significant risk to children.

He emphasized SEROCU’s ongoing efforts to apprehend offenders like Burrage and protect community safety.

For those concerned about their own or others’ inappropriate thoughts or behaviors regarding children, support can be obtained through the Stop it Now!

helpline at 0808 1000 900, or from the Lucy Faithfull Foundation.

Victims or those with information about offences should contact their local police either via 101 or emergency services at 999.