Alfie Morel, Hampshire football coach, was convicted guilty of sexually abusing children whom he “obsessively” recruited and bribed on social media. He was found guilty of nine counts of child sex abuse, three of which involved boys and one involving a girl.
Hampshire Police initiated an inquiry after a 12-year-old child said that Morel had sent him obscene messages on Instagram and Snapchat. Three more victims have come forward, including two 12- and 13-year-old boys and a 14-year-old female.
“Morel manipulated the children to win their confidence and admiration, then began pestering them on social media and threatening death if they did not do what he wanted,” a Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) spokeswoman said.
He exploited their hobbies by playing video games with them, communicating with them on social media and creating private chat groups and playfighting, and even promising them spots on a football team in exchange for sexual favors.”
At Portsmouth Crown Court, Morel was sentenced to 15 years and 10 months in jail. “The victims’ bravery and ability to speak up contrasts sharply with your selfishness and cowardice,” Judge Richard Shepherd remarked. You groomed and, in some cases, sexually molested children for your personal sexual gratification.
“For your own selfish sexual pleasure, you lied, manipulated, forced, bribed, and cajoled.” They were looking up to you, and the treachery was plain to see.”
A detective constable, Jennifer Dalziel, stated: “The victims in this instance have demonstrated amazing bravery by speaking with police and testifying in court.
“The police and CPS would not have been able to charge Morel if it had not been for the victims’ bravery in coming forward. We appreciate them speaking with us and entrusting us with their requirements.
“We hope that this action brings some closure to the victims of Morel’s abuse and that it encourages others who have experienced similar abuse to come forward and speak with authorities, knowing that their voices will be heard.”
Morel was convicted guilty of attempted rape, two counts of sexual contact with a child, and three counts of sexual contact with a minor.
He also admitted to having intercourse with the 14-year-old girl. He was found not guilty of raping a kid under the age of thirteen. When Morel is released from prison, he will face an additional year of probation as well as an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
