Amy Packham and Christopher Prior were both instructed in a grooming case involving a 14-year-old victim.  Amy prosecuted the case on behalf of the CPS, and Chris was instructed by Toby Brothers Legal on behalf of the defence.

The defendant, a 52-year-old man, set up an account on Instagram giving none of his personal details and amassed 7500 followers of which he estimated 70% were girls under 16.  He was subsequently accused of grooming the then-13-year-old girl after befriending her through that account.

The defendant was convicted of sexual activity with a child and meeting a child following sexual grooming following an 8-day trial at Portsmouth Crown Court. Remarkably, two key witnesses gave evidence remotely from their dining room via their mobile phones whilst self-isolating.

The case has been adjourned for sentence.