Luke Stephen Collie, age 24, from Bournemouth, has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years for causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. He was handed his sentence at Bournemouth Crown Court on Monday 12 May.
On sentencing, the judge stated that he considered Collie posed a significant risk of further sexual offending and causing harm to children. On release from prison Collie will spend a further eight years on a dangerous person’s licence under the Criminal Justice Act 2003. A breach of the conditions of this licence can result in an immediate return to prison.
Collie was also given a Sex Offenders Prevention Order and placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
During 2013 and 2014, Collie had been in touch with children via Facebook, Skype, X Box and other social media networks for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity with them.
Gifts were offered to children in return for performing sexual acts. Collie would also become abusive and use threats when his advances were rejected.
Police were alerted to Collie’s online activities and Detectives from Dorset Police’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT) launched an investigation, which resulted in the prosecution of Collie.
Director of Public Protection, Acting Detective Superintendent Chris Naughton said: “We are using technology to combat offenders who use the internet as weapon to attack and abuse children.
“The internet is a wonderful resource, but I urge parents to make themselves aware of what their children are doing online. There are a minority of people who want to groom and sexually exploit children. Please don’t let them have the opportunity.
“There are a number of ways to keep your children safe online. The Safe Schools Community Team (SSCT) run courses in educational establishments, and educate young people in internet safety. These courses include messages about keeping personal information safe and encouraging young people to consider safe social networking and responsible online behaviour.
“The SSCT also hold classes for parents, delivering internet safety sessions. Parents can either contact schools or Dorset Police direct on 101 for more information on these. Parents may also wish to visit the ceop.police.uk website for information and guidance.
“I also urge those abusing children to seek professional help from either their GP or another professional organisation such as Stop it Now! of the Lucy Faithfull Foundation.”
The Paedophile Online Investigation Team can be contacted on 101. In an emergency always dial 999.
