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PAUL ETHERIDGE, CARPENTER FROM HALESWORTH, SENTENCED FOR MULTI-COUNT SEX OFFENSES IN GUILDFORD
In March 2008, Paul Etheridge, a 24-year-old carpenter from Halesworth in Suffolk, was sentenced to five years and nine months in prison at Guildford Crown Court for a series of sex crimes across the UK.The case came to light after a 13-year-old girl from Reigate reported online advances from an unknown man requesting indecent photographs. This led to an investigation by Surrey Police’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team. In August 2007, authorities arrested Etheridge following a thorough analysis of his computer and mobile phone, which revealed contacts with hundreds of girls under 16 nationwide.
Etheridge faced 33 charges, including possession of indecent images and engaging in sexual activities with a 15-year-old girl from London. In January, he admitted to 26 charges, with seven additional charges still pending.
The judge described Etheridge as a malicious predator who exploited children via the internet, encouraging them to send explicit images as part of a disturbing pattern. It was revealed that he ‘rewarded’ these young victims with mobile top-up vouchers. Investigations uncovered that Etheridge, who was obsessed with the sci-fi horror film PREDATOR, also groomed minors into webcam performances.
Over 200 victims were identified, including a 15-year-old whom Etheridge had convinced to meet him for sex. Authorities launched a major online surveillance operation following the initial report from a 13-year-old girl.
During the raid on his home, police seized numerous electronic devices, including computers and mobile phones. Some files found on one laptop bore provocative titles such as “Child Lover” and “Girls From 12 To 14 Having Sexual Experiences.”
Detective Superintendent Pete O’Sullivan commented on the widespread nature of Etheridge’s crimes, stating, “Paul Etheridge’s offending was some of the most widespread I’ve ever seen. Technology provides a wealth of benefits for young people, but with many children now owning their own mobile phone or having a computer in their bedroom, parents must also be aware of the potential dangers.”
Children and young people are advised to visit http://www.thinkuknow.co.uk for online safety guidance.
