Separating online child sex abuse whether it is chat-room grooming, distribution of illegal images or any other form of attack, cannot and should not be separated from offline consequences. People who prey on children whether for personal pleasure or other illegal gain do it in a way that exploits any possible opportunity. Any response must similarly be all encompassing.
This is the principle that lies at the heart of the new Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre. Launched in April 2006, the CEOP Centre works across the UK and maximises international links to deliver a holistic approach that combines police powers with the dedicated expertise of business sectors, government, specialist charities and other interested organisations - all focused on tackling child sex abuse wherever and whenever it happens.
That means working with parents, young people and children to safeguard their online experiences. It includes direct support to victims and their families and involves the relentless tracking and prosecution of offenders.
Intelligence is the central thread that runs throughout the organisation. Whether it is the need to understand how the criminal mind works or how sex offenders strive to exploit all situations. Whether it is more about working with children and young people in order to reach and safeguard their online experience, everything the CEOP Centre does is driven by knowledge first and targeted action second.
All of this means that the CEOP Centre is unique in the UK. It is a law enforcement organisation but with a very different approach. It is about fresh thinking and working across a wide perspective, co-ordinating action whether it is with local police forces or other relevant bodies and above all collectively working with all our partners and stakeholders to stay that vital step ahead of what can be a complex and multi-faceted area of crime.