24 September 2010
A postman from Cornwall who used social-networking websites to abuse hundreds of children has been jailed for eight-and-a-half years.
Michael Williams admitted inciting sexual activity, grooming and distributing indecent images.
The 29-year-old, of Tresooth Lane, Penryn, approached children on Facebook and Bebo, Truro Crown Court heard.
He groomed them, asked some to perform sex acts over a webcam and arranged to meet others before abusing them.
The court heard the grooming and abuse took place between 2004 and 2009. He also pleaded guilty to voyeurism and possessing indecent images.
Devon and Cornwall Police have identified about 500 victims but believe hundreds were too scared to come forward and the actual total could be 1,000.
Williams, who admitted 27 charges, was described by police as a "predatory, manipulative and prolific offender".
'Sheer hell'After creating at least eight fake online profiles, Williams targeted youngsters he met on his post round in his hometown, on school runs as a taxi driver, and in his role as secretary of Falmouth Town Football Club.
He sometimes posed as a teenager online and also dyed his hair different colours to disguise his identity.
He convinced some victims to meet him in parks, on beaches and at his home.
He was dismissed by Royal Mail after his arrest in February.
Det Insp Simon Snell of Devon and Cornwall said that Williams' victims had been "through sheer hell".
He said: "'Corrosive' is probably the best way to describe Michael Williams.
"He preyed on young people. He is dangerous and will remain so until he has had the correct treatment."
He added that Williams's crimes had "completely devastated" people in Penryn.
He said: "To have this kind of activity taking place in their community has been extremely distressing."
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