Attempting sexual communication with a child and inciting a child to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity.

20-year-old David Shipway Faces Serious Charges for Online Sexual Offenses

David Shipway, 20, of Ladyfield Road, pleaded guilty to charges of attempting sexual communication with a child and inciting a child to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity at Swindon Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, January 17th.

The court heard that Shipway was arrested by police after paedophile hunters visited his home. During online conversations with an individual posing as a 14-year-old girl, Shipway used sexually explicit language, requested explicit photographs, and sent a picture of his penis.

Prosecutor Kate Prince argued that the case falls under category 1A, the most serious classification, and recommended it be sent to a crown court for sentencing.

Defense solicitor Mark Glendenning stated that Shipway has mental health issues and struggles to differentiate between appropriate and inappropriate behavior. A pre-sentence report was ordered, and the case has been adjourned to Swindon Crown Court for sentencing on February 16th.

Shipway was released on unconditional bail. He was instructed to register as a sex offender within 72 hours. The duration of his registration will be determined at the sentencing hearing next month.