Police warning over online sexual grooming as arrest is made

A man in his 50s has been arrested in the Ballymoney area on ‘suspicion of attempting to arrange or facilitate the commission of a sex offence with a child’.
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The PSNI confirmed this evening (Thursday, February 24) that detectives from the Child Sexual Exploitation team made the arrest this morning.

Detective Chief Inspector, Kerry Brennan from the PSNI’s Public Protection Branch said: “Following a proactive policing operation shortly before 5am, a 53-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted sexual communication with a child and attempting to arrange or facilitate the commission of a sex offence with a child.

“He remains in custody, assisting with enquiries at this stage.”

DCI Brennan is advising parents to be on their guard when it comes to online safety.

“We know that children are being groomed online in Northern Ireland.

“Children now have access to numerous digital devices at home, meaning they are at greater risk to be targeted by online predators.

“We want to help parents understand the dangers online and encourage them to have the same safeguarding conversations that they would if their children were leaving the house to go outside to play.

“Just because they are in their room on their devices, doesn’t mean they are safe. Your child could be talking to anyone online. Check in regularly, find out who they are talking to and educate yourself and your child about the importance of online safety.”

The detective said that PSNI officers are working closely with local schools, Department of Education and the Education Authority to highlight the potential dangers online, and would appeal to any parents concerned that children may be being groomed online or at risk, to contact police on 101, or in an emergency always dial 999.

More information on how to spot the signs of online grooming can be found on the NSPCC website www.nspcc.org.uk