Police reflect on sexual grooming case

A prison sentence handed down to a Douglas man who sexually groomed a teenage boy should be 'a stark warning' to those who would consider commiting the offence.

That's the hope of the Isle of Man Constabulary's Public Protection Unit, after 59-year-old cleaning supervisor Anthony Edward Duggan was jailed for 16 months.

The court heard Duggan specifically targeted the 'vulnerable' 15-year-old, supplying him with cigarettes and alcohol, with the intention of engaging in sexual activity with him, despite knowing his age.

The unit says it's pleased with yesterday's sentence, and the case demonstrates the constabulary's commitment to safeguarding the Island's children and young people from such behaviour.

The case first came to light when information was passed to the police which suggested Duggan was targeting vulnerable young males.

Duggan was arrested before any actual abuse occurred.

Police say the case is a timely reminder to all parents to make sure they know who their children are associating with.

Duggan has been placed on the Sexual Offenders' Register for five years, and police say orders granted by the court will make it more difficult for him to meet and groom children once his term in custody ends.