A sexual predator who posed as a teenager to groom and exploit young boys online has been jailed.
Ian Cheetham, 39, of no fixed address, contacted children through social media and engaged in explicit sexual conversations and activity. He shared indecent images and videos with victims aged under 15, lying about his age to take advantage of their vulnerability.
Police seized devices belonging to Cheetham and discovered over 70 indecent images. He was subsequently convicted of engaging in sexual communication with a child, inciting sexual activity, causing a child to watch a sexual act, and making indecent images.
Cheetham was sentenced to four years and eight months imprisonment at Birmingham Crown Court on Monday (4 November), followed by a further four years on extended licence. He was also issued with an indefinite sexual harm prevention order.
Detective Constable Louisa Scarlin, from West Midlands Police’s public protection unit, warned of the dangers of online grooming. She said: “Cheetham took advantage of young boys for his own sickening gratification, preying on their age and innocence. He lied about his age to build trust and manipulate them.
“Young people can become victims of various types of abuse online through gaming platforms, social media, and apps accessible on devices like tablets, phones, and consoles.”