Penzance Man Jailed After Dating App Contact With Child

A father checking his daughter’s phone uncovered something no parent wants to find. That discovery has now led to a 65-year-old Newlyn man being locked up for more than four years.

The Sentencing

Christopher Stevens, of Chywoone Hill in Newlyn, appeared at Truro Crown Court on Friday 8th May where he was sentenced to four years and six months in prison.

Christopher had pleaded guilty on 13th April to causing or inciting a child under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity.

How It Came To Light

The court heard that Christopher had been in contact with the child through a dating app before moving the conversation over to a messaging app, where explicit content was shared.

Contact only stopped when the child’s father looked through her phone and immediately alerted police.

Restrictions On Release

Alongside the prison sentence, Christopher was made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) for 10 years. The order places strict restrictions on his internet use and any contact with children once he is released.

He was also placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely.

Police Response

Investigating officer Detective Constable Emily Distin said: “This case highlights the serious risks posed to children in online environments and the determined efforts of law enforcement to identify and prosecute those who seek to exploit young people.”

She added: “This emphasises the importance of parents, carers and guardians remaining vigilant to children’s online activity and encouraging open conversations about internet safety.”

“Anyone with concerns about child exploitation or inappropriate online behaviour is urged to report it to police or via the appropriate safeguarding channels below.”

Where To Get Help

If you suspect a child is in immediate danger, call 999. For non-emergencies, the police can be reached on 101, or you can visit a police station in person.

Concerns can also be raised with the NSPCC, your local council’s children’s social care team, or Fearless confidentially and anonymously.

Victims and their families can access support through Victim Care Devon and Cornwall, by calling Victim Support on 0808 1689 111, or the Devon and Cornwall Police Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.