Woody Spencer

A 34-year-old man from Exeter, Woody Spencer, has been found guilty of a series of horrific child sexual abuse offences following an international investigation led by the National Crime Agency (NCA).

The case began when the Australian Federal Police (AFP) identified a video posted online depicting a child being sexually abused. Believing the perpetrator to be a UK national, the AFP shared the information with the NCA. Investigators from the NCA's victim identification team analysed the footage, where Spencer had attempted to conceal his identity, but were able to positively identify him and locate his home address in Exeter.

On 8 March, NCA officers arrested Spencer at his residence. A search of his phone revealed 163 indecent images of children, including 43 Category A images—the most serious classification—50 Category B, and 70 Category C. Additionally, officers discovered a video of an 18-year-old woman showering, which Spencer had filmed without her permission, leading to earlier charges of voyeurism that he admitted.

Spencer was charged with multiple grave offences, including assault of a child under 13 by penetration, sexual assault of a child under 13, causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, attempted oral rape, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, causing a child to watch sexual activity, and offences related to making and distributing indecent images of children. On 30 October, at Exeter Crown Court, he was convicted on all counts after a trial.

NCA Operations Manager Holly Triggs commented on the case: 'The victims in this case have been subjected to horrific sexual abuse, for the sexual gratification of Woody Spencer and others online. Due to the dedicated work from all officers in this case, they have now been safeguarded and can start the road to recovery.' She emphasised the NCA's ongoing commitment: 'Tackling this global threat remains a priority for the NCA and our partners. We will continue to work tirelessly to protect those affected by child sexual abuse and stop offenders who pose a sexual threat to children, no matter where in the world they are.'

Spencer is scheduled for sentencing at Exeter Crown Court on 29 November. The investigation highlights the collaborative efforts between UK and international law enforcement to combat online child sexual exploitation.