Daniel Mark Carlson

A 29-year-old police community support officer from Bishop’s Waltham has admitted to serious child grooming offences, following an investigation by the police's Internet Child Abuse Team. Daniel Mark Carlson, who was serving in Winchester, pleaded guilty to four counts related to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child and attempting to cause or incite a girl aged 13 to 15 to engage in sexual activity.

The offences occurred between 10 July and 9 August 2024, during which Carlson allegedly sent communications while on duty, though not using police devices. As a result of the charges, Carlson has been suspended from his duties. The case came to light through a targeted investigation into online child abuse, highlighting vulnerabilities even within law enforcement roles.

Carlson appeared before Poole Magistrates' Court on 14 August 2024, where he entered guilty pleas to all four counts. The court remanded him in custody, with sentencing scheduled for a later date. Hampshire Constabulary, the prosecuting force, confirmed the suspension and the nature of the investigation, emphasising their commitment to safeguarding children online.

According to court records and police statements, the communications were deemed attempts at grooming, a form of child sexual exploitation. No further details on the specific content of the messages were released, but the charges underscore the gravity of the allegations. This incident has raised concerns about vetting and oversight in community support roles.