Prolific paedophile jailed for 15 years

A man from Merstham was jailed today (17 November) for a multitude of sexual offences against children.

Dean O'Reilly, born on 06/07/1982, was sentenced to 15 years behind bars at Guildford Crown Court, after pleading guilty to 38 child sex offences, including 17 charges of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. He was also handed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

O'Reilly was first arrested in October 2020 after police received intelligence that he had uploaded indecent videos of children to the internet. A warrant was executed at his home address and multiple digital devices were seized.

Examination of his devices revealed that he had been in contact with multiple young girls across several online platforms. O’Reilly had engaged in sexually explicit chats with these girls and incited them to engage in sexual acts on camera, which he recorded.

Investigating Officer, PC Kate Lightburn, of the Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT), said; “Today’s sentencing is the result of a long and meticulous investigation. The victims in this case have shown incredible bravery in supporting our investigation and providing us with the evidence to put a dangerous predator in prison. We hope the conclusion of this case will bring them some form of closure.”

"If you have been a victim of child sex abuse, I would encourage you to speak to us. We will take you seriously and do everything we can to support you."

If you have concerns that someone you know may have a sexual interest in children, please contact Stop It Now, a UK-wide charity focused on stopping child sexual abuse.

For more information about online sexual abuse and how to spot it, please visit CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command).”