Seaham sex offender convicted after trying to meet underage girl

A Seaham man has been convicted after being caught trying to meet what he thought was an underaged girl

Michael Taylor used social media apps such as Kik and Whatsapp to communicate with the girl and even looked to book transport for her to travel from the West Midlands to his flat in Seaham.

However, little did he know that the child he was sexually communicating with was actually a decoy run by an Undercover Online Operative (UCOL) called ‘Dani’.

The 62-year-old was arrested and later charged with attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, breach of a sexual harm prevention order, breach of sexual offenders register requirements and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.

A number of devices were also seized from Taylor’s address, including his mobile phone, which formed a huge part of the investigation.

Taylor, of Albert Street appeared at Durham Crown Court today , Friday, October 2, where he was sentenced to 45 months in prison.

Detective Sergeant Richard Blamires, from the Public Protection unit said: “Taylor’s offending was extremely concerning and although there was no victims in this case, it clearly shows his willingness to act on his heinous sexual desires.

“I hope today’s outcome provides the public with some comfort knowing Taylor is behind bars and demonstrates our commitment to dealing with sex offenders in our county.”