Legal issues
Key issues include the defendant’s age, the complainant’s age, whether the touching or activity was sexual within section 78, and—where the statute permits it—whether the defendant reasonably believed the complainant was 16 or over.
Children under 13 cannot consent in law to the relevant sexual offences, and different statutory provisions apply.
Evidence that matters
Evidence may include messages, social-media profiles, photographs, witnesses, venue or travel records, device data and material relevant to what was said or known about age.
Reasonable lines of enquiry
Reasonable enquiries may include complete communications, profile and account records, evidence about age representations, witnesses, location/travel material and testing the chronology of the alleged sexual activity.
What happens next
These cases are treated seriously and can be prosecuted in the Crown Court depending on the precise offence. Investigations often involve digital examination and safeguarding material.
Immediate steps
Preserve messages and account data. Do not contact the complainant contrary to bail conditions. Record what was known, said or represented about age and preserve objective material supporting that account.
What should you send us?
Send the allegation/charge, ages, police/bail papers, next date, complete communications, profile/account evidence, witness details and chronology.