REECE BIGGS FROM HODDESDON ESCAPES JAIL AFTER PAEDOPHILE HUNTER STING IN HERTFORDSHIRE

In a case that has drawn significant attention, Reece Biggs, a 26-year-old resident of Chittenden Close in Hoddesdon, narrowly avoided imprisonment after engaging in inappropriate online communications with a decoy posing as a 13-year-old girl. The incident took place over a period spanning from March 20 to April 28, 2018, and was part of an undercover operation conducted by the vigilant paedophile hunting group Justice4Kids.

During a sentencing hearing held at St Albans Crown Court on Friday, June 4, Biggs pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a minor. Prosecutor Richard Whitcombe outlined the details of the case, revealing that Biggs initially approached the decoy account, known as 'Jessica,' asking her age. The decoy responded that she was 13, and Biggs correctly identified himself as 23 at the time.

According to court records, Biggs continued to communicate with the decoy, showering her with compliments and describing her as 'beautiful' and 'fit.' Unbeknownst to him, the account was operated by undercover authorities, yet he persisted in his messages. Early in their exchanges, Biggs also requested a photograph of her abdomen, indicating a particular interest in that area. However, no such images were ever sent.

As conversations progressed, the tone shifted towards explicit intentions, with Biggs expressing a desire to have sex with the girl. He also sent a photograph of himself, modestly describing his appearance and clarifying that his feelings were not romantic but friendly. The court heard that Biggs had no prior criminal record.

On April 28, 2018, Biggs traveled to Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, with the apparent intention of meeting 'Jessica.' However, upon arrival, he reportedly changed his mind and decided not to go through with the meeting. The paedophile hunters, who had been monitoring his movements, contacted the police after observing him near some shops in Hoddesdon. Evidence including a mobile phone and screenshots was handed over to law enforcement authorities, leading to his subsequent arrest.

During police interviews, Biggs claimed he intended to meet the girl solely to dissuade her from meeting up and to clarify that their interaction was not meant for any sexual purpose. Despite this, the court found sufficient evidence of his intent and actions to warrant a serious sentence.

Judge Kay QC sentenced Biggs to a 12-month prison term, suspended for two years. Additionally, he was ordered to complete a sex offender treatment program and 30 days of rehabilitation. He will be registered as a sex offender for ten years and subject to a sexual harm prevention order for five years. The mobile device used during the communication was ordered to be destroyed, and all related evidence was seized by authorities.