Predator’s sentence hiked after telling woman to abuse kids
Online talk of vile child sex attacks
Alan Nicholson, 53, from High Harrington, Cumbria, persuaded a woman he thought was a mum to sexually assault her two young children – a five-year-old and a four-month-old baby. Their twisted online chats focused on vile plans to abuse the children.
Undercover cop exposes monster
But “Louise” wasn’t a mum at all – she was an undercover police officer working with Cumbria’s Cyber and Digital Crime Unit. Nicholson was quickly arrested and convicted on two counts of attempting to arrange child sex offences.
Sentence slammed as too soft – now increased
Initially, Nicholson was sentenced to three years behind bars, slapped on the Sex Offender Register, and given a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order. The Crown Court in Carlisle handed down the sentence on 16 December 2022.
However, the sentence was challenged under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme. On 9 March 2023, the Court of Appeal agreed the original punishment was too mild and boosted Nicholson’s jail time to 5 years and 9 months.
Justice praised by top officials
“Alan Nicholson believed he was successfully arranging to carry out vile acts on very young children. Thankfully the person he was talking to was an undercover police officer, whose diligent and commendable work led to his imprisonment,” said Solicitor General Michael Tomlinson KC MP.
“I praise all involved for catching Nicholson and preventing further harm. A longer sentence sends a clear message – this disgusting behaviour won’t be tolerated.”
Detective Sergeant James Bailey from Cumbria’s Cyber and Digital Crime Unit added: “We welcome Nicholson’s increased sentence. Our specialists work hard behind the scenes year-round to deter offenders, catch criminals, and protect victims.”
“We oppose those who commit these crimes and pledge to keep hunting them down to bring them to justice.”
