Man Who Searched Online for 'Schoolgirls' Caught by Vigilante Group in Deeping St James

A man who admitted making online searches for 'schoolgirls' was given a suspended jail sentence by a judge after being caught by a vigilante child protection group.

Roger Hards, 56, from Whittlesey, Peterborough, pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child under the age of 13. The offence took place between February 4th and March 2nd, 2023, in Deeping St James.

Lincoln Crown Court heard that Hards was caught in a sting operation after engaging in sexually explicit conversations with an adult decoy posing as a 12-year-old girl on social media. During these conversations, Hards revealed his age and made inappropriate inquiries about the decoy's virginity, sexual preferences, and relationship status. He also sent her an intimate picture of himself.

Police seized various devices from Hards and discovered he had conducted online searches for "schoolgirls." Representing himself in court, Hards, who has no previous convictions, expressed deep shame for his actions and stated his desire to move forward with his life.

Judge Catarina Sjolin Knight addressed Hards directly, stating that she had reviewed the disturbing conversations he engaged in with the decoy. She emphasized the seriousness of his offenses, highlighting both the online searches and the explicit nature of his communications.

Hards was sentenced to eight months imprisonment suspended for two years. He was also ordered to complete 40 rehabilitation activity requirement days, pay £150 in costs, and comply with a ten-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order. Additionally, he must register as a Sex Offender for the same period.