JERSEY PAEDOPHILE TREVOR ROWE SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS IN PRISON FOR ONLINE CHILD ABUSE

In March 2011, Trevor Rowe, a 27-year-old offender from Jersey, was sentenced to nine years in prison for a predatory online abuse operation that spanned across the globe. Over a two-year period, Rowe systematically groomed children in internet chat rooms, forcing them to perform degrading sexual acts that were streamed live to his computer. He created more than 1,400 indecent images, which is among the highest quantities recovered by local police. Rowe pleaded guilty to all 14 charges, which included 13 counts related to making and distributing indecent images and one charge of unauthorized access to computer material.

In 2004, Rowe had previously served 21 months in prison for possessing and distributing indecent photographs of children. Jersey police stated that the recent investigation was initiated following an inquiry from UK police forces, with collaborative efforts from multiple local and UK law enforcement agencies.

Detective Inspector Steve Langford of the public protection unit emphasized the evolving nature of such crimes, saying, “It is recognised that there is a growing trend by offenders to use the internet to exploit young children and encourage them to engage in inappropriate acts whilst online.” He added, “Public protection work involves the protection of all vulnerable victims, including young children, within the community and remains a key priority for the States of Jersey Police.”

Following his conviction, Trevor Rowe has been placed on the sex offenders register.