Man jailed for 'horrific' child sex abuse plot

A man who sought to arrange the sexual abuse of children has been jailed for eight years.

Richard Stevenson's offending was uncovered after he chatted online about his detailed sexual abuse fantasies, raising how he wanted a "partner" to join him in acting out his wishes, and sharing videos containing child sexual abuse material, West Midlands Police said.

What Stevenson, of Coventry, did not know was the person with whom he was communicating was an undercover police officer.

He was arrested while sitting in a van in the city on 2 May and on 4 September was sentenced at Warwick Crown Court.

Stevenson, of Waveley Road, had admitted to attempting to arrange a child sex offence, and making and distributing indecent images of children.

The 39-year-old was given an extended licence period of two years, and made subject of an 18-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

He was also ordered to sign the Sex Offenders' Register for life.

Det Con John Marsh said Stevenson's offending was "simply appalling".

"On multiple occasions, he outlined his horrific plans, and we are in no doubt that he would have seen those plans through had he had the opportunity," he said.

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