A Cardiff man, previously jailed for child-related sexual offences, has been caught again trying to engage with what he thought were 13-year-old girls. Jean-Paul Sterckx, 49, had been under a Sexual Harm Prevention Order after a 2015 conviction for similar crimes but continued his illegal activities, this time targeting undercover police officers posing as minors.
Sterckx used social media to send inappropriate messages and photos, unaware that his “young victims” were actually decoys from the Metropolitan Police. Conversations included explicit content and even a video call attempt. Upon his arrest, Sterckx lamented to officers about the impact on his family and made a failed excuse about his phone being hacked.
During the court proceedings, the defence described him as “thoroughly ashamed” yet highlighted his work ethic. This time, Sterckx received a 20-month suspended sentence, avoiding immediate prison time but with strict conditions including participation in an accredited programme and unpaid work. He also faces a decade-long extension of his SHPO and must pay court costs over £1,300.
It’s a stark reminder of the vigilance needed online and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals from predatory behaviour. Stay alert, and let’s protect our communities.