Grooming Plot Thwarted by Quick-Thinking Police

Simon Hancock, 47, drove 20 miles from Dartford to Maidstone with sinister intentions. The van driver was caught prowling a car park near Mote Park, circling and scouting for a teenage boy he’d groomed online.

Hancock had spent days sending explicit messages and obscene images to the underage victim via Snapchat. He brazenly admitted knowing the boy was underage but promised to teach him how to “touch, kiss and hold.”

Police Intercept Van After Suspicious Circling

On 19 February 2025, Hancock’s plan was foiled when officers spotted his white Toyota repeatedly leaving and re-entering the car park. They trailed him to nearby Greenside, where the panicked driver slammed his van into an unmarked police car trying to escape.

Officers quickly surrounded the vehicle, forced entry, and detained Hancock. A kitchen knife was seized, alongside two phones. On one device — dubbed his “bad” phone — Hancock admitted to possessing indecent images of children.

Three-Year Jail Sentence for Sick Predator

Charged with arranging or facilitating a child sex offence, attempted sexual communication with a child, and making indecent images, Hancock pleaded guilty. On 2 October, Woolwich Crown Court slammed him with a three-year prison sentence.

He will also face a Sexual Harm Prevention Order once released. A separate knife possession charge was ordered to lie on file.

Police Warn Parents to Stay Vigilant Online

Detective Constable Ellie Campbell said: “Hancock’s actions were predatory and calculated. He deliberately targeted a child online, sent explicit material, and travelled with the clear intention of committing further sexual offences. Thankfully, our officers stopped him in time.”

“This case is a stark warning to parents. With young people frequently online and using messaging apps, it’s crucial to educate them about staying safe and reporting anything that feels wrong.”