The team, part of Essex Police’s Crime and Public Protection unit, led the nation in 2024 for securing charges related to online child abuse, solidifying their place at the forefront of safeguarding efforts.
In 2024 alone, POLIT carried out 210 warrants, resulting in 146 arrests and the successful safeguarding of 247 children.
With an impressive 75% solved rate, the team’s work highlights their commitment to disrupting and preventing online abuse, often collaborating internationally to share vital intelligence.
Detective Inspector Emma Portfleet praised the team’s dedication:
“Our team is committed to keeping children safe by finding those intent on causing harm and bringing them to justice.
We’re proud to have been recognized as the top-performing team in the country, but we remain focused on constantly improving our tactics to protect vulnerable children.”
One standout case involved 36-year-old Darren Hornsby, whose crimes came to light in 2019 after intelligence revealed indecent images and videos of children linked to his Clacton address.
A hand expert played a critical role in identifying him as the abuser in one video, leading to his conviction. Hornsby was jailed for 15 years last month and issued a lifetime sexual harm prevention order.
In another complex investigation, POLIT brought Nick Barrett and Summer Andrew to justice after they used an online chat site to facilitate offences against children. Both were jailed for a combined 15 years.
Currently handling 278 live investigations, POLIT officers regularly review graphic and distressing evidence to protect children.
DI Portfleet added,
“This work takes a significant toll on our team, but their dedication ensures these results are achieved. We remain steadfast in our mission to safeguard children and bring offenders to justice.”
Essex Police encourages the public to report any suspicions of online child abuse to help protect children from harm.