James Tristem

James Tristem, aged 46 from Rull Lane in Cullompton, Devon, was charged with attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child. The offence occurred between 8 January 2025 and 5 February 2025 in Exminster, where Tristem believed he was communicating with a minor but was actually interacting with an undercover police officer.

According to court records from the magistrates' court in Exeter, Tristem entered a guilty plea to the charge on 3 November 2025. The case highlights ongoing efforts by Devon and Cornwall Police to combat online grooming and child sexual exploitation through proactive undercover operations. No further details on the nature of the communications were provided in the initial hearing, but such offences typically involve attempts to solicit indecent images or arrange meetings.

Tristem was committed to the crown court for sentencing, scheduled for 1 December 2025. This development underscores the seriousness with which UK courts treat child sex offences, even in cases involving decoys. The prosecuting authority is Devon and Cornwall Police, responsible for policing Devon and Cornwall regions.