Sent explicit videos of him committing sexual who he believed was a 14-year-old boy.

Hartlepool Man Sentenced for Child Sex Offences

A Hartlepool man has been sentenced to prison after sending explicit videos of himself committing sexual acts to someone he believed was a 14-year-old boy.

Jason Harrison, 54, of Kesteven Road, Hartlepool, was sentenced to two years and seven months in prison and placed on an indefinite Sex Offenders Notice. Harrison sent sexually explicit videos of himself and graphic sexual messages to what he thought was a teenager, but was actually officers from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU) and Cleveland Police.

Harrison was arrested in January 2022 and appeared at Teesside Crown Court on Monday, October 23, for his sentencing. He pleaded guilty to arranging/facilitating the commission of a child sex offence, possession of extreme pornography, and causing/inciting a child under 16 to engage in sexual activity on August 11.

Detective Inspector Leonard from NEROCU stated, "When sex offenders operate online, they think they can hide their crimes, but this case shows the lengths officers will go to protect victims and bring offenders before the courts. This has been a long and thorough investigation by our team, and this result has meant a predator is now behind bars and potential victims have been prevented."

"Online offending is sadly on the rise, but our investigative skills and evidence gathering are constantly evolving. We would always encourage anyone with information about this type of offending, or anyone who thinks they have been a victim to come forward and talk to police – you will be supported."

"Under Operation Sentinel, our regional approach to tackling serious and organised crime, we will continue to investigate these online offences to safeguard children and protect the public. For those engaging in this type of behaviour, our message is simple: you will be caught, and you can expect a knock at the door from us."