Newport Predator Paul Allen Jailed for 16 Years
Paul Allen, 37, from Hinton Road, Newport, has been locked up for 16 years after a major investigation into child sex offences. The Isle of Wight Investigations Team, with help from SEROCU, brought him to justice.
Horrific Crimes Uncovered
- Allen was busted in September 2021, caught arranging to meet a child he thought he was grooming online at Newport Recreation Ground.
- The “child” was actually a police officer, who arrested him on the spot.
- He later pleaded guilty to arranging a child sex offence and possessing cannabis at Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court.
Further probing revealed Allen sexually abused a 14-year-old boy he met on Grindr in March 2021. The abuse included an assault in woodland near Carisbrooke in June. Allen also shared indecent images and engaged in explicit chats with multiple children via WhatsApp, Snapchat, Grindr, and Kik.
Previous abuse between 2014 and 2016 also came to light during the police investigation.
Jail Terms & Shocking Details
At Winchester Crown Court in April, Allen admitted:
- 2 counts of meeting a boy under 16 after grooming
- 6 counts of sexual communication with a child
- 4 counts of penetrative sexual activity with a boy aged 13-15
- 3 counts of distributing indecent images of children
- 2 counts of arranging a child sex offence
- Causing a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity
- Offering to supply cannabis
He was sentenced on May 31 to 16 years in prison plus a six-year extended licence period.
Another Predator Snared in Joint Operation
In a parallel probe, police arrested 46-year-old Paul Elvins from Sandown. He also tried to groom a child online and was charged with multiple offences, admitting 19 charges in total.
Elvins received a 4 years and 8 months prison sentence in May.
Police and Community Leaders React
Chief Inspector Alex Charge said: “These investigations uncovered a shocking list of child sex offences. Allen and Elvins are dangerous men who endanger children.”
“We hope the public knows we are doing everything to catch these predators, bring them to justice, and protect victims.”
“Anyone affected by abuse should reach out to police or specialist organisations for support.”
SEROCU Detective Inspector James Oxley added: “This sends a clear warning to internet predators—you will be caught and face the consequences.”
Support for Victims Available
Tracy Kent, Deputy CEO of Hampton Trust, highlighted the vital role of Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs) who offer free, tailored support to victims regardless of police involvement.
ISVAs guide survivors through options like police reporting, counselling, and referral centres.
For help, visit hamptontrust.org.uk or call the Adult ISVA Service at 07376 083950 / 07776 959829.
