Matthew Harriman

Matthew Harriman, a 34-year-old man from Derbyshire, has been sentenced to one year in prison for breaching a sexual harm prevention order imposed following his previous conviction for attempting to meet a boy under the age of 16.

The case was heard at Derby Crown Court, where Harriman admitted to the breaches. The order, which had been in place for five years, was designed to prevent further sexual harm after his earlier offence. Prosecutors detailed that the breaches involved Harriman purchasing a new iPhone and having an old laptop at his address, both of which violated the terms of the order prohibiting unauthorised access to devices that could facilitate prohibited activities.

Judge Jonathan Bennett, presiding over the case, noted that Harriman had 'significant vulnerabilities', including global developmental delay, which had previously led to him being spared immediate custody in favour of a community order. However, the judge emphasised that Harriman had 'repeatedly' breached this community order, stating that 'only immediate custody was now appropriate'. This decision underscores the court's commitment to enforcing protective measures for public safety, particularly in cases involving individuals with a history of child sex offences.

Harriman, formerly residing at Empire Court in Shirebrook, Derbyshire, was taken into custody following the hearing. The sentencing reflects ongoing efforts by Derbyshire authorities to monitor and address risks posed by convicted sex offenders. According to reports from the Derbyshire Times, published on 9 February 2026, the breaches were discovered during routine checks, highlighting the importance of compliance with such orders.