Declan Chaloner

Declan Chaloner, a 21-year-old man, appeared at Chester Magistrates' Court via video link from HMP Rochester on Tuesday, where he pleaded guilty to breaching a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO). The breach occurred on 30 March 2023, when Chaloner contacted a child under the age of 18, an action explicitly forbidden by the SHPO imposed by Chester Crown Court on 24 October 2023.

The court heard from prosecutor Charlotte Brookes, who detailed the specifics of the violation. The SHPO had been put in place to prevent Chaloner from engaging in activities that could lead to further sexual harm, following his previous conviction for sexual offences. Despite these restrictions, Chaloner made contact with the underage individual, prompting police investigation and his subsequent arrest.

Selina Woodward, defending Chaloner, agreed with the prosecution's request to commit the case to the higher Crown Court for sentencing, allowing it to be dealt with alongside other pending matters. Magistrate committed Chaloner to Chester Crown Court, where he was remanded in custody as a serving prisoner. Sentencing was set for Thursday, 22 January 2024, also via video link from HMP Rochester.

The case was reported by the Chester and District Standard, with Chief Reporter Barrie White covering the proceedings. This incident underscores the ongoing enforcement of protective orders aimed at safeguarding vulnerable individuals from sex offenders in the Merseyside region.