Paedophile, 34, jailed after live streaming sexual assaulting on girl

An 'exceptionally dangerous' paedophile who live streamed himself sexually assaulting a young girl online has been handed a 25-year sentence. 

Woody Spencer, 34, was arrested in his Exeter home earlier this year on March 8 by National Crime Agency (NCA) investigators. 

His arrest came after information was received from the Australian Federal Police in relation to the video that emerged online. 

Despite Spencer's attempt to hide his identity in the live stream, the NCA identified him as well as his home address. 

Authorities discovered 163 indecent images of children on the paedophile's phone, with 43 being classed as category A - the most serious. 

Fifty category B images were also found on his phone as well as 70 category C child abuse photos. 

In an investigation led by the UK crime agency, additional evidence relating to voyeurism offences against an 18-year-old woman was also found. 

Spencer had covertly recorded the young woman without her permission whilst she showered. He admitted this offence at an earlier date. 

Judge James Adkin at Exeter Crown Court yesterday sentenced Spencer to 20 years in jail with an extra five years on licence.

The judge called Spencer 'an exceptionally dangerous man', adding that he presented 'an imminent risk' if he were 'to be at large'.

'Even when you are released you will need the most careful scrutiny that can be provided to a defendant and supervision for many years to reduce the risk,' the judge said.

'You are clearly a dangerous offender.'

The judge commended all those involved in bringing Spencer, who he labelled a 'repugnant and persistent' offender, to justice.

The paedophile was found guilty of several offences including assault of a child under 13 by penetration, sexual assault of a child under 13, and causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity. 

He was also determined guilty of attempted oral rape, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child, causing a child to watch sexual activity, as well as making and distributing indecent image of children.

During the trial Nigel Wraith, defending, said Spencer had made some admissions about his crimes. 

Mr Wraith also noted the sex offender had mental health issues as well as a difficult upbringing. 

NCA Operations Manager Holly Triggs said: 'The victims in this case have been subjected to horrific sexual abuse, for the sexual gratification of Woody Spencer and others online. 

'Due to the dedicated work from all officers in this case, they have now been safeguarded and can start the road to recovery.

'Tackling this global threat remains a priority for the NCA and our partners. We will continue to work tirelessly to protect those affected by child sexual abuse and stop offenders who pose a sexual threat to children, no matter where in the world they are.'