A Southend man has been jailed after attempting to sexually abuse a child and distributing indecent images – offences which were uncovered through an undercover police operation.
Christopher Stuckey, 59, of Prospect Road, was arrested after Essex Police’s Online Investigation Team (POLIT) uncovered his disturbing plans through covert online chats. Officers had posed as a 13-year-old girl and separately as the aunt of an eight-year-old girl over two separate conversations.
The court heard that during a four-day period in June 2024, Stuckey believed he was chatting to a 13-year-old girl online. He sent her sexually explicit messages, including a photo of himself, and asked her to send him images in return.
In a separate three-month-long online exchange, he believed he was speaking with the aunt of an eight-year-old girl and made clear plans to sexually assault the child.
Both profiles were controlled by specialist undercover officers.
Following a rapid investigation, POLIT officers arrested Stuckey at his home in July. They seized multiple mobile phones which were forensically linked to the offences. Stuckey gave no comment in police interviews but later pleaded guilty in court.
At Basildon Crown Court, he admitted:
- Attempting to arrange or facilitate the sexual assault of a child under 13
- Attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child
- Two counts of distributing indecent images of children
- Three counts of possessing indecent images of children – including seven Category A, seven Category B, and three Category C images
On Thursday 12 June 2025, he was sentenced to seven years in prison and a further five years on extended licence. He was also given a 15-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
PC Simon Clarke, from Essex Police’s POLIT, said:
“Although Stuckey didn’t sexually abuse a child, he showed intent to, and the images found at his home also show he is a danger to children. A child is victimised when an indecent image is taken and every time it is viewed or shared.”
Essex Police continue to warn parents and guardians to monitor children’s internet use and report any suspicious or inappropriate online behaviour. Their POLIT team runs frequent undercover operations to protect children from online predators.
Keeping children safe online – top tips for parents and carers
As children and young people spend ever-more time online, it’s vital that parents and carers know how to help them stay safe. Here are some practical steps you can take:
1. Talk regularly about online safety
Keep open conversations going about what your child does online, who they speak to, and what apps or games they use. Make sure they feel safe telling you if something feels wrong.
2. Set boundaries and use parental controls
Use built-in settings on devices, apps and broadband routers to filter content and manage screen time. Set age-appropriate privacy settings on social media accounts.
3. Know what they’re using
Familiarise yourself with the games, websites, chat apps and platforms your child is using. Look for hidden messaging features or live chat options that might pose risks.
4. Encourage critical thinking
Teach your child to question who they’re talking to online and not to share personal details or images with people they haven’t met in person.
5. Watch for changes in behaviour
Signs such as secrecy, withdrawal, anxiety or using devices late at night could be cause for concern. Trust your instincts if something seems off.
6. Make reporting normal
Let your child know they can always come to you – and make sure they know how and where to report abuse or uncomfortable experiences online.
Where to report concerns and get support
- CEOP (The Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre):
Report online abuse or suspicious behaviour at: www.ceop.police.uk - NSPCC:
Advice and support for families around online safety: www.nspcc.org.uk - Thinkuknow:
A website with age-specific guidance and tools for children and parents: www.thinkuknow.co.uk
Staying informed and involved in your child’s digital life is one of the most effective ways to protect them from harm.