Shane Bartlam

Shane Bartlam

Male Custodial

Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire

Offender ID: b1970f38-a840-4a7b-a2e6-d2078b03abf6

Offence Summary

A mentally ill man from Welwyn Garden City was sentenced for attempting to arrange the commission of a child sexual offence after travelling to south Essex expecting to meet a schoolgirl but was met by vigilantes.

Full Description

A mentally ill man who travelled from Hertfordshire to south Essex expecting to have sex with a schoolgirl was instead met by a group of vigilantes. Shane Bartlam, from Welwyn Garden City, was sentenced at Basildon Crown Court for attempting to arrange the commission of a child sexual offence.

The court heard that Bartlam had travelled from his home in Hertfordshire to south Essex, believing he would be meeting a schoolgirl. However, upon arrival he was confronted by a group of vigilantes who had been posing as the child online. Essex Police subsequently arrested him and he was charged with the sexual offence.

At the sentencing hearing, the court acknowledged Bartlam’s mental health difficulties, which were a significant factor in the case. The judge highlighted the serious nature of the offence, noting the danger posed by individuals who seek to exploit children online.

The case underscores the risks of online sexual offending and the role that vigilante groups sometimes play in bringing such attempts to light. Essex Police urged anyone with concerns about child sexual exploitation to come forward, while also cautioning against members of the public taking the law into their own hands.

Location

City: Welwyn Garden City

County: Hertfordshire

Case Details

Police Force: Essex Police

Special Thanks

A huge thank you to Essex Police for their tireless dedication in bringing this offender to justice. Your commitment and hard work truly help keep our communities safe, and we are deeply grateful.

Source: whtimes.co.uk

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