A NEWLYN man has been jailed for over four years for inciting a child into sexual activity online.

Christopher Stevens, of Chywoone Hill, appeared at Truro Crown Court on Friday (May 8) where he was sentenced to four years and six months’ imprisonment.

The 65-year-old pleaded guilty on April 13 to causing/or inciting a child under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity.

The court heard how Stevens had been in contact with the child over a dating app before moving over to a messaging app where explicit content was shared. It was only when the child’s father looked through her phone that contact ceased and the police were alerted.

On sentencing, Stevens was made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) for a period of 10 years, placing strict restrictions on his internet use and contact with children upon release. He was also placed onto the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Emily Distin said: “This case highlights the serious risks posed to children in online environments and the determined efforts of law enforcement to identify and prosecute those who seek to exploit young people.

“This emphasises the importance of parents, carers and guardians remaining vigilant to children’s online activity and encouraging open conversations about internet safety.

“Anyone with concerns about child exploitation or inappropriate online behaviour is urged to report it to police or via the appropriate safeguarding channels.”

Anyone with concerns about child abuse, including victims, should call 999 if someone is in immediate danger, or 101 for non-emergency cases. Those with a hearing or speech impairment can use the textphone service 18000 or text 999 if pre-registered with the emergencySMS service (18001 101 for non-emergencies).

Alternatives include calling Victim Support on 0808 1689 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.