Sunderland man jailed after making indecent images of children.
Last updated 2nd Dec 2022
A man has been sentenced after making indecent images of children and attempting one to engage one in a sexual act.
Darran Faith, 43, was interviewed in January 2021 after engaging in sexual communications with a child online.
However, what he didn’t know was he was actually speaking to an undercover officer from the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU).
As part of the investigation, a number of devices were also seized from his home in Sunderland including his laptop – and when examined, the devices contained multiple indecent images of children.
Investigating officers worked tirelessly to build a strong evidential case to present at court and charged Faith with attempting sexual communication with a child and of making indecent images of children.
Due to the exceptional police work and the mountain of evidence gathered by the team, Faith pleaded guilty to all counts at South Tyneside Magistrates’ on October 27.
Yesterday (Wednesday), he appeared at Newcastle Crown Court and was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment, suspended for 2 years.
Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Constable Rob Smoult, from the Northumbria Police Cyber Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT) said: “When sex offenders operate online and through social media they think they can hide their crimes but this case shows the lengths officers will go to protect victims and bring offenders before the courts.
“Thanks a swift investigation by our officers a dangerous predator has been placed before the courts and sentenced.
“We would always encourage anyone with information about this type of offending, or anyone who thinks they have been a victim to come forward and talk to us – we’re here for you and we will support you.”
Faith was also ordered to 35 days rehabilitation, 10 years sex offender notification requirement and 10 year sexual harm prevention order.
If you have any concerns about someone online, report it to police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page on our website. It could help stop vulnerable people becoming victims.