Man Jailed for Child Exploitation Offences Involving Snapchat and Roblox

An individual has been incarcerated for over five years for utilizing Snapchat and Roblox to “sexually exploit children.” Taran Jay Woodward, 24, from Stroud, Gloucestershire, admitted to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child and intentionally causing a female under 13 to engage in sexual activity. He was sentenced at Gloucester Crown Court on Tuesday, having pleaded guilty to the offences, which occurred against two girls in May 2022. Woodward was arrested after the children’s parents discovered the incidents and reported them to the police. Woodward also received sentencing for two counts of breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. Det Sgt Bernadette Harding, of Gloucestershire Police, stated, “Despite previously being convicted for online child sex offences, Woodward has continued to use popular social media apps to target and sexually exploit children.” Police reported that Woodward was arrested and charged as part of a “lengthy and diligent” investigation carried out by Gloucestershire Constabulary’s Child Exploitation Team. Det Sgt Harding commented, “When he was identified and later arrested, he provided a no comment interview.” She added, “It was clear from the evidence gathered that he knew he was speaking to, and sexually exploiting, children online.” Woodward was sentenced to five years and four months in prison. He was also ordered to forfeit all electronic devices for destruction and to pay a £190 victim surcharge.