Catarina Araujo

Catarina Araujo, 46, of Limassol Road, Dereham, Norfolk, was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on 13 February 2026 after admitting to two offences connected to the sexual exploitation of children. The case arose from an investigation by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Major Crime Team, which exposed a network of abuse involving multiple defendants. Evidence from seized devices corroborated her admissions, linking her to the production or possession of indecent material involving children.

Although her charges were fewer in number compared to her co-defendants, Araujo's participation was part of the same extended period of offending that harmed several victims. The court imposed a 12-month custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months, reflecting a determination that immediate imprisonment was not warranted in her specific circumstances, though she was still held accountable. She was also subjected to indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Orders and notification requirements to mitigate future risks.

The investigation began with a victim's report in adulthood, leading to the identification of further victims and the recovery of incriminating digital evidence. Detective Sergeant Sam Grant commended the victims' courage, noting that their disclosures were essential in achieving justice against Araujo and the others involved in this manipulative scheme of child exploitation.