Child Sex Offenders Sentenced After Undercover Sting on Isle of Wight
Paul Allen, 37, from Newport, was handed a hefty 16-year prison sentence today (May 31) following a major child sex offence investigation. The Isle of Wight Investigations Team, backed by the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU), cracked down on Allen after an undercover operation.
Undercover Trap at Newport Recreation Ground
On September 27, 2021, Allen was nabbed after arranging to meet someone he believed was a child at Newport Recreation Ground. Little did he know, the “child” was an undercover police officer. Allen immediately confessed to arranging a child sex offence and possessing cannabis when charged at Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court the next day.
Disturbing History of Abuse and Grooming Uncovered
- Further reports revealed Allen sexually abused a teenage boy he met on Grindr in March 2021.
- Explicit WhatsApp messages and in-person assaults, including one in Carisbrooke woodland, were unearthed.
- Police found Allen had groomed and abused another boy between 2014 and 2016.
- His phone data exposed contact with multiple minors over WhatsApp, Snapchat, Grindr, and Kik, alongside attempts to sell cannabis locally.
Long List of Charges and Jail Time
At Winchester Crown Court on April 25, 2022, Allen admitted to serious offences including:
- 2 counts of meeting boys under 16 after grooming
- 6 counts of sexual communication with a child
- 4 counts of penetrative sexual activity with boys aged 13-15
- 3 counts of distributing indecent images of a child
- Causing or inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity
- Offering to supply cannabis
His 16-year prison term comes with an additional six years on extended licence.
Second Predator Also Locked Up
In a related probe, 46-year-old Paul Elvins, formerly of Sandown, was arrested after targeting someone he believed was a child online. Charged with multiple child sex offences, Elvins admitted 19 counts including attempting sexual contact with minors, and was sentenced to 4 years and 8 months imprisonment earlier this month.
Police and Support Groups Send Warning
Chief Inspector Alex Charge: “These investigations uncovered a shocking list of child sex offences. Allen and Elvins are dangerous men who endanger children. The public should be reassured our officers are relentless in tracking down abusers and protecting victims.”
“We urge anyone affected by abuse to come forward. Our specially trained officers and support organisations are here to help, whether you feel comfortable speaking to police or not.”
SEROCU Detective Inspector James Oxley: “These convictions send a clear message: if you try to abuse children online, you will face justice. Working closely with Hampshire Constabulary, we ensure offenders are off the streets.”
Tracy Kent, Deputy CEO of Hampton Trust, highlighted the role of Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs) in supporting victims, providing free tailored help regardless of police involvement.
For support, visit hamptontrust.org.uk or call the Adult ISVA Service on 07376 083950 / 07776 959829.
