Newbury paedophile snared in online trap

PAEDOPHILE hunters have caught a man who wanted to have sex with a child.

The 41-year-old from Newbury was warned that he is likely to face an immediate custodial sentence for his actions.

In the dock at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, November 9, was Jason Thomas Waple.

The 41-year-old, who is currently staying at the Two Saints hostel in Newtown Road, attended court with a female companion.

His solicitor, Robert Jacques, said his client admitted both offences with which he has been charged.

Specifically, Mr Waple admitted trying to incite a child to engage in penetrative sexual activity in Newbury on Tuesday, January 24.

He further admitted trying to persuade a girl child to engage in another form of sexual activity by requesting that she sent him photos pf her genitals in Newbury on Tuesday, October 31.

The court heard that Mr Waple, a father of one, thought he had been engaging with a 13-year-old girl – when, in fact, he had been talking to an adult decoy.

District judge Samuel Goozee told him that the first charge was indictable only – meaning it can only be sentenced by a crown court judge.

He sent both matters to Reading Crown Court to be dealt with on Monday, December 11.

Judge Goozee meanwhile ordered pre-sentence reports to be prepared.

He told Mr Waple: “Obviously, all sentencing options remain open, including an immediate custodial sentence.

“And, taking into account the sentencing guidelines, you do need to prepare yourself for an immediate custodial sentence.”

Mr Waple was meanwhile granted bail on condition he does not engage in any unsupervised contact with anyone under 18.

In addition he must engage with social service regarding any safeguarding issues that may arise.