Sanjoy Rajput

Sanjoy Rajput, a 53-year-old registered sex offender from Harebell Drive, Witham, Essex, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for breaching his Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and failing to comply with notification requirements under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

Rajput was subject to a SHPO that strictly restricted his use of devices with internet access, aimed at preventing further sexual harm following his prior convictions. On 23 September 2020, officers from the Management of Sexual Offenders and Violent Offenders (MOSOVO) team conducted an unannounced visit to his home. During the search, they discovered an unauthorised mobile phone in his possession, which violated the terms of his order. Further investigation revealed that Rajput had also obtained a new credit card without informing the authorities, as required by law.

In addition to these breaches, Rajput was charged with five counts of failing to comply with the notification requirements of the sex offender register. This included his use of an alias name to groom young females online, demonstrating a clear intent to circumvent restrictions and engage in predatory behaviour. He was arrested shortly after the visit and appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to all offences on 22 October 2020.

Sentencing occurred on 27 November 2020 at the same court, where Judge [name not specified] imposed an 18-month custodial sentence. The case was handled by Essex Police's MOSOVO team, which is dedicated to monitoring registered sex offenders to protect the public.

Detective Inspector Nathan Hutchinson, who leads the MOSOVO team in the north of Essex, commented: 'This investigation is another example of the work MOSOVO does to protect the public from Sex Offenders and keep them safe. We regularly carry out visits to the homes of registered sex offenders in our communities to ensure they’re complying with the orders and requirements put upon them to reduce their risk to the public.' He further emphasised the team's proactive approach, noting that while most offenders comply, swift action is taken against those who do not, ensuring they face court proceedings.

The case underscores the ongoing vigilance required in managing sex offenders in the community, with Essex Police highlighting their specialised training and commitment to public safety. Source: InYourArea, 2 December 2020.