Sex predator jailed after paedophile hunter group set up a decoy in the West Midlands

A paedophile hunter group which posed as a 14 year-old girl led to the arrest of sex predator Sam Collier.

The 28 year-old, of no fixed address, was found found guilty of arranging/facilitating the commission of a child sex offence and committing an offence with the intention of committing a relevant sexual offence at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Thursday (13 October). He was sentenced to 13 years.

The offences took place in January 2019, he was charged and remanded in custody while waiting to be sentenced after he was caught attempting to meet who he thought was a 14 year-old girl - but was in fact a paedophile hunter group.

A second incident involved a 15-year-old girl who Collier befriended on Facebook. He lured the girl into thinking they were in a relationship and engaged her in sexual chat.

He suggested they meet and asked for photos. Around four weeks later the girl was reported missing by her mother, the following day she was found with Collier.

Detective Constable Katrina Sands from the West Midlands Police public protection unit, said: “Collier’s grooming behaviour was predatory and despicable. We know the devastating effect this can have those affected.

“I would like to thank the paedophile group for bringing his actions to our attention, and also the young girl who bravely told us what happened when we found her - we do not underestimate how difficult this was.

“We’ve supported her throughout the investigation and it’s down to her bravery that Collier will now spend a long time in prison. He will also be placed on the sex offenders register for life and will be subject of a sexual harm prevention order.”

If you have suffered abuse West Midlands Police said they will listen to you. The force works with a number of other agencies and charities who can offer support, even if you do not want to pursue a criminal conviction. To find out more click here

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