Portsmouth man travelled to Southampton to meet young girl

A 67 year old Portsmouth man has been convicted of a child sex offence. This follows an incident in May when he travelled to Southampton to meet an 11 year old girl.

Gordon Welch of Sheffield Road in Portsmouth travelled to Shirley on 12 May intending to meet the girl. He arrived equipped with condoms, viagra and flavoured lubricant fully intent on committing sexual acts.

On his arrival, thanks to previous investigations being carried out, Welch was met by police officers from SEROCU (South East Regional Organised Crime Unit) and Hampshire Constabulary. He was charged the same day.

In court yesterday, 31 October, Welch pleaded guilty to arranging to commit a sexual act upon child. He was remanded in custody and will return to Court for sentencing later in November.

Via an online statememt, Detective Constable Colin Haynes, of SEROCU, said: “Thankfully no children were ever in danger during this investigation. Despite this, Welch clearly intended to meet and carry out these acts on a child until he was stopped by officers as part of a proactive SEROCU investigation, with assistance from Hampshire Constabulary. I am glad he has now recognised his guilt. 

“SEROCU endeavours to safeguard children who may be vulnerable or at risk. We work to ensure those in society who pose a real risk to the community, in particular young children, are brought before a court to account for their actions.”