Newport Predator Paul Allen Jailed for 16 Years
Paul Allen, 37, from Newport, has been slammed with a 16-year prison sentence today (May 31). The sentence follows a major probe by the Isle of Wight Investigations Team and the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU).
Sting Operation Leads to Arrest
Back in September 2021, Allen was arrested after trying to meet someone he believed was a child at Newport Recreation Ground. Unbeknownst to him, he was actually dealing with undercover police officers. Allen pleaded guilty to arranging a child sex offence and possessing cannabis the next day at Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court.
Grotesque Abuse Revealed
Further investigation exposed horrific crimes. In summer 2021, Allen sexually abused a 14-year-old boy he met via the Grindr app. They communicated through WhatsApp, where Allen sent explicit images. The abuse included a chilling assault in woodland near Carisbrooke.
While in custody, police uncovered more damning evidence. Allen had messaged multiple children on platforms like WhatsApp, Snapchat, Grindr, and Kik. Investigators found he abused another boy between 2014 and 2016 and distributed indecent images. He had also tried to peddle cannabis locally.
Additional Dastardly Crimes and Hard-Hitting Sentencing
Allen admitted a string of shocking offences at Winchester Crown Court in April 2022, including:
- Meeting boys under 16 after grooming
- Engaging in sexual communication with children
- Multiple charges of sexual assault on minors
- Causing a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity
- Offering to supply cannabis
He was locked up for 16 years with an additional six-year extended licence period.
Another Pervert Busted in Patrol Operation
Alongside Allen’s arrest, 46-year-old Paul Elvins from Sandown was also caught in a police sting. Elvins, like Allen, targeted children online, pretending to be one himself. He was charged in November 2021 with attempted sexual communication with a child and arranging offences.
Elvins later faced 19 additional charges, including multiple attempts to have sexual contact with children. He admitted all charges and was sentenced to 4 years and 8 months behind bars on May 6.
Police Warn Public and Offer Support
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 are committed to hunting down offenders and protecting our vulnerable.”
“We urge anyone affected by abuse to contact police or seek help from support organisations.”
SEROCU Detective Inspector James Oxley added: “This sends a clear message — try to abuse children online and you will be caught and face justice.”
Help Available for Victims
Tracy Kent, Deputy CEO of Hampton Trust, said: “Our Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs) offer tailored support to victims, whether or not they report to police. This service is free and open to all Isle of Wight residents of any age or background.”
“ISVAs provide crucial information about options including police, Sexual Assault Referral Centres and counselling.”
For assistance, visit hamptontrust.org.uk or call the Adult ISVA Service at 07376 083950 / 07776 959829.
