Predator Gareth Lucas Busted Trying to Groom ‘Kids’ Online
Fake Profiles Trap Pervert in Online Sting
Gareth Lucas, using the fake name ‘Garfuncle Lucas’, bombarded what he thought were 14-year-olds with explicit images and graphic messages. Between August and November 2019, he used Facebook and instant messaging apps to target these “children.”
Despite clear replies stating they were school-age kids, Lucas pushed for sex acts and indecent photos. He even tried to arrange a meeting in Sevenoaks, planning to abuse one victim on a train. What he didn’t know: these “children” were actually fictitious profiles set up to catch him out.
Plaid Down the Law at Maidstone Crown Court
Arrested in Tunbridge Wells in November 2019, Lucas initially denied the charges, claiming his phone was hacked. But at Maidstone Crown Court, he pleaded guilty to two counts of trying to sexually communicate with a child and three counts of attempting to cause a child to engage in sexual activity. He was found guilty after trial of attempting to arrange a child sex offence.
Seven Years Behind Bars and Lifetime Sex Offender Tag
The 31-year-old from Maidstone was slammed with a seven-year jail sentence on 22 September 2023. He must also serve an extra four years on extended licence and will be slapped with an indefinite sexual harm prevention order. He’s now on the sex offenders register for life.
Police Warn Parents to Stay Vigilant
Detective Constable Carl Evans of the Paedophile Online Investigation Team said: “Lucas made persistent efforts to contact children for his own gratification. His graphic messages showed a clear intent to abuse. This case is a crucial reminder to parents. Talk to your kids about internet safety. Make sure they only chat to people they know and report any creepy or inappropriate behaviour to adults or the police.”
