Jersey man who sexually exploited & groomed children online handed 8-year prison sentence

Matthew Snepp used social media to target many of his victims. Credit: States of Jersey Police

A Jersey man has been sentenced to eight years and six months in prison for a series of grooming and sexual offences targeting children.

Matthew Snepp, 32, appeared in Jersey's Royal Court on Thursday 19 December for targeting vulnerable victims, primarily through Snapchat.

Snepp used 45 different Snapchat aliases to gain their trust before exploiting them.

The offences include unlawful sexual penetration of an older child and three counts of grooming, amongst others.

A 10-year restraining order for 4 victims is also in place and Snepp will be registered as a sex offender and be on a notification order for 15 years.

Detective Constable Verity Thomas said: “This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by offenders who use social media platforms to exploit young and vulnerable individuals.

"The courage of the victims who came forward has been vital in bringing this offender to justice, and we thank them for their bravery."

The 32-year-old created both male and female Snapchat accounts pretending to be under 18 to groom young users. Credit: States of Jersey Police

Detective Constable Thomas added: “Our priority is to safeguard the vulnerable and bring perpetrators of such crimes to justice.

"We encourage anyone who suspects grooming or exploitation to report it immediately.

"The States of Jersey Police will listen, investigate, and with their partners, provide support every step of theway."

The court sentenced Snepp to the following:

Indictment 1:

  • Count 1: Perverting the Course of Justice

    • 12 months prison sentence

Indictment 2:

  • Count 1: Unlawful sexual act older child

    • Five years consecutive

  • Count 2: as above

    • Five years concurrent

  • Count 3: Unlawful sexual penetration of an older child

    • Four years concurrent

  • Count 4: Causing sexual activity with an older child

    • Four years concurrent

  • Count 5: Grooming

    • 2 years 6 months consecutive

  • Count 6: Grooming

    • 12 months concurrent

  • Count 7: Grooming

    • 12 months concurrent

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