WAYNE POLL LANCING CHATROOM PERVERT ESCAPES JAIL DESPITE GROOMING UNDERCOVER POLICE OFFICER

In a case that has drawn significant attention, Wayne Poll, a 29-year-old resident of Glebe Way in Lancing, was found guilty of engaging in online grooming activities with what he believed was an 11-year-old girl. The incident unfolded over several weeks, during which Poll, who called himself 'Uncle Wayne' in the chatrooms, initiated conversations that gradually became more explicit and manipulative.

According to court reports, Poll first contacted the undercover officer through an internet chatroom, where he quickly transitioned the conversation to MSN Messenger. It was during these exchanges that the officer, posing as a young girl, revealed her age as 11. Despite the apparent innocence, Poll's messages soon indicated a clear understanding of her age, with him commenting on a photo she sent, saying, “You look good in your school uniform.”

Throughout their online interactions, Poll repeatedly asked whether she would tell her mother about their conversations, suggesting a level of secrecy and intent. The communication escalated over the weeks, with Poll suggesting they meet in person, although no meeting was ever arranged. Instead, police intervened before any physical encounter could occur, executing an arrest at Poll’s home in Lancing.

During the police search, officers discovered three indecent photographs of children on his computer, including one of a naked 15-year-old boy. These findings added to the severity of his charges. The case was brought before Southwark Crown Court, where Poll faced multiple counts, including inciting sexual activity with a child, making indecent images of children, and possessing such images between February 19 and June 10 of the previous year.

Lesley Jones, prosecuting, explained that the investigation was part of a specialized operation by the Metropolitan Police targeting individuals seeking to exploit children online. She detailed how the covert officer, posing as a young girl, engaged Poll in conversation, which quickly turned explicit. She emphasized that Poll’s initial contact was in a chatroom, but he soon moved the dialogue to private messaging, where he was explicit about his intentions.

Poll, who has learning difficulties and an IQ of 50, admitted to the charges. He claimed that the girl had told him she was 17, but later confessed the truth during police interviews. The court was informed of his mental health and intellectual challenges, which were considered during sentencing.

Judge Peter Testar, presiding over the case, acknowledged the seriousness of the offences but decided against imprisonment, stating that Poll was not considered a danger to children. Instead, he was sentenced to a three-year community order with supervision. Additionally, the judge imposed a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which prohibits Poll from accessing chatrooms or instant messaging platforms and from working with children in any capacity.