Paedophile guilty of arranging and facilitating the commission of a child sexual offence.

A Paedophile Jailed After Being Tricked by Police

Frank Salmon, 54, of Harbourne Gardens, West End, Southampton, has been sentenced to two years and four months in prison for attempting to arrange and facilitate a child sexual offence.

Salmon, who pleaded guilty to the charge, believed he was meeting a 14-year-old boy in Shirley, Southampton on June 23, 2023. However, he was instead met by officers from Hampshire Constabulary and the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (Serocu).

Detective Constable Colin Haynes of Serocu stated, "Thankfully no children were ever in danger during this investigation, but Salmon clearly intended to meet and carry out these acts on a minor until he was stopped by officers."

He added, "I am glad he recognised his guilt and will now spend time in prison reflecting upon his actions. The case highlights the hard work and dedication of the officers within Serocu and in police forces in finding those willing to carry out these acts and ensuring they face justice."

In addition to his prison sentence, Salmon was also given a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for 10 years.