South Shields Predator Jailed After Arranging to Watch Sexual Abuse of 12‑Year‑Old
A South Shields man has been jailed after attempting to watch the live sexual abuse of a 12‑year‑old girl during an undercover police operation.
Tony Bonner, 62, was arrested following a covert investigation by the North East Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU). Officers discovered he had been communicating online with someone he believed could provide access to children overseas for sexual abuse via live stream.
Unbeknown to Bonner, the person he was speaking to throughout 2023 was an undercover officer. As the conversations progressed, Bonner made arrangements to watch a child being sexually assaulted and discussed the possibility of meeting in person.
Arrest and Devices Seized
In June 2024, NEROCU officers — supported by Northumbria Police — executed a planned strike and arrested Bonner at his home. Multiple electronic devices were seized for forensic examination.
Investigators uncovered indecent photographs and videos of children, adding to the weight of evidence against him. Bonner was charged with arranging the commission of a child sex offence and possession of indecent images of children. He later pleaded guilty.
Four-Year Sentence
Bonner appeared at Newcastle Crown Court on Friday, where he was sentenced to four years in prison. He was also handed a ten‑year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, restricting his access to children and internet‑enabled devices.
‘The vile actions of Bonner were clear’
Detective Constable Lee Robertson said: “The vile actions of Bonner were clear and thanks to the dedicated work of officers he is now behind bars and facing the consequences of his actions.
“We would urge anyone who has been a victim of this type of offending, or has concerns about someone’s behaviour, to come forward and talk to police – support is available and you can help safeguard other vulnerable children.”
Reporting Concerns
If you have concerns about child abuse or want to report a crime, contact your local police force via their website or by calling 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.
You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.