Grant Derek Giblin

A Derbyshire man, Grant Derek Giblin, has been jailed for eight years following his guilty plea to serious child sex offences involving blackmail and exploitation via social media.

Between November 2021 and August 2023, the 29-year-old from Willington, Derbyshire, targeted vulnerable children aged between 10 and 16. Using various social media applications, Giblin befriended his victims to gain their trust, encouraging them to send images of themselves. Once he received initial images, he resorted to blackmail, threatening to expose them unless the children performed sexual acts on themselves and sent further indecent content.

The National Crime Agency (NCA) launched an investigation into Giblin's activities, leading to his arrest in January 2024. He was charged with multiple offences, including engaging in sexual communications with a child under 13 and causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. Giblin appeared at Derby Crown Court in July 2024, where he pleaded guilty to all charges. Sentencing occurred on 23 October 2024 at the same court.

• Targeted children via social media apps
• Blackmailed victims into sending indecent images
• Incited sexual acts for his own gratification

In addition to the eight-year custodial sentence, Giblin faces an extended licence period of eight years upon release. He is subject to an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and must register as a sex offender for life.

NCA operations manager Danielle Pownall described Giblin as a 'depraved offender, preying on vulnerable children online and making them feel as if they had no choice but to send him sexual images.' She emphasised that his crimes were committed solely for personal sexual gratification, with no regard for the harm caused to his victims.

The case was reported by the Derbyshire Times on 23 October 2024, highlighting the dangers of online exploitation. The NCA's involvement underscores the national effort to combat child sexual abuse in the digital space.