Information for suspects who have been arrested for online child sexual offences

If you have been visited by the police or arrested for possible internet offences, you may have thought that this day might come and are faced with what is going to happen now. If you have been troubled by your behaviour, you may feel a sense of relief that it is no longer a secret.

It is likely that you feel confused, scared, or numb. You may have questions about how this will affect your family and friends; the legal process and how long it might take; what might happen if there are media reports; or what other people will think if or when they find out; or what will happen next.

What happens next?

We will have received information that has led to the investigation. As part of the investigation, we will have visited your address. It is likely that we have removed your computer, mobile devices, and other material.

This might take time to deal with. We will do whatever is required to investigate any offences you may have committed, including examining what is held on your devices. Your equipment will be examined and once the results are known, a decision will be made about what happens next. If there is evidence that you have committed a criminal offence it is likely that you will be charged. We will advise you of your rights if and when this happens.

The investigation can sometimes take a long time, be prepared for some frustration, uncertainty and worry during this period. It is important that your life continues as normal, so there is no need for you to abandon any plans you might have made. It is important that you keep your investigating officer informed of any plans and of your whereabouts in case you need to be contacted. It is also important to comply with any bail conditions you might have.

For more information, go to the Stop It Now! website.

Information and support

Safer Lives provides support to people during their investigations for online and other sexual offences. As former probation officers, they maintain the highest ethical and practice standards and are well-placed to help people understand and address their behaviour. They work with offences including possession and/or distribution of indecent images as well as attempted sexual communication with minors.

Safer Living Foundation (SLF) - Charitable Incorporated Organisation that adopts a multi-agency approach with a strong research component. The SLF is focused on reducing sexual offending and re-offending through rehabilitative and preventative initiatives.