Predator Jailed Over 10 Years for Sex Crimes Against Teen
A 32-year-old child sex offender, Samuel Netley, has been locked up for more than a decade after pleading guilty to sexually abusing a teenage girl in Devon.
Devon Groomer Busted After Lying About Age
Netley, who moved between various addresses in Devon and Cornwall, was sentenced at Plymouth Crown Court. He admitted four counts of sexual activity with a child and breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
The court handed him an extended sentence of 10 years and eight months. This includes five years and eight months behind bars, followed by five years on extended licence. He’s now on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and faces a restraining order to shield his victim.
How the Horrific Abuse Came to Light
The nightmare started in 2019 when the victim’s mother alerted police after discovering her underage daughter had been abused by an older man she met on Snapchat.
Investigators found Netley had lied about his age, sent explicit images, and coerced the teenager into sexual acts in woodland areas. Mobile phone evidence exposed his grooming tactics.
Detective Praises Bravery, Calls for More Victims to Speak Out
“We feel so proud of the victim in this case, a vulnerable child targeted by Samuel Netley,” said Detective Constable Simon Cooper, who led the investigation.
“It took tremendous courage for her to come forward and help us catch this predator. Her fight for justice was unwavering.”
“The harsh sentence sends a strong message that we take child sexual offences seriously. Hopefully, it encourages other victims to speak out and helps us protect vulnerable young girls.”
Support Services for Victims
If you or someone you know has been affected, help is at hand:
- Victim Support: 0808 1689 111
- Devon and Cornwall Police Victim Care Unit: 01392 475900
- National Rape Crisis Helpline: 0808 802 9999
- Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC): 0300 303 4626
More info: 123.
