Sex offender messaging kids as young as 10 after release.

Northampton Sex Offender Back in Prison for Deleting Messages Sent to Children

A Northampton sex offender, John Richards, has been sent back to prison after being caught deleting messages on his phone that were sent to children as young as 10.

In April, police conducted a routine check at Richards' residence following his release from jail. Upon arriving, officers observed Richards apparently deleting data from his mobile phone.

A subsequent inspection of the device revealed messages and indecent images of children. An investigation by PC Gemma Glover and DS Ollie McNally, spanning a 20-hour shift, uncovered Richards' contacts, including another registered sex offender from outside the county who has since been recalled to prison.

On Thursday, July 14, Richards was sentenced to three years at Northampton Crown Court after being convicted of three attempted breaches of a sexual harm prevention order, two counts of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, and one count of making an indecent photograph.

PC Dani Wilton, Richards' offender manager and a member of the Northamptonshire Police Management of Sexual or Violent Offenders (MOSOVO) team, commented on the case, stating: "Richards is a high-risk sex offender, and I am truly pleased to see him back behind bars, away from children. This is a remarkable victory for the MOSOVO team, and I hope it showcases the Force's proactive and dynamic approach to managing registered sex offenders. Our primary focus is protecting children and vulnerable individuals from harm. This team is deeply passionate about safeguarding, and I believe this case exemplifies our commitment."