Essex Police secure first 'Cyber-flashing' conviction in the country

An Essex Police team, who manage sexual offenders and violent offenders, have secured a conviction for the first ‘cyber-flashing’ offence in the country.

Nicholas Hawkes, 39 of Curling Tye, Basildon appeared at Southend Magistrates Court on Monday, 12 February where he pleaded guilty to two counts of sending a photograph or film of genitals to cause alarm or distress or humiliation.

An investigation into Hawkes was launched on Friday, 9 February after Essex Police received a report that a woman and a 15-year-old girl had been sent explicit images over WhatsApp.

Hawkes was arrested and quickly charged with two counts of sending a photograph or film of genitals to cause alarm or distress. He was also charged with breach of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. 

Hawkes was remanded into custody ahead of sentencing on 11 March at Basildon Crown Court.

Detective Chief Inspector James Gray said “This investigation moved quickly and our officers from our Crime and Public Protection team put hours of work into securing this result and getting a dangerous individual off the streets.

“Technology is developing and unfortunately, this means that new offences are emerging alongside this. However, as these newer offences are identified, we are adapting and learning about how to investigate these and protect vulnerable people.

“Sending a photograph or film of genitals to cause alarm or distress is commonly known as ‘Cyber-flashing’.

“Whether virtually or physically, this is an intrusive crime which is extremely distressing for victims. Cyber-flashing and revenge porn are relatively new sexual offences and victims are entitled to lifelong anonymity under the Sexual Offences Act.

“Anyone out there who thinks it’s acceptable to send these unsolicited photos, it’s not and you are committing a criminal offence.”