Former Barnet Councillor Escapes Prison in Child Sex Offence Case
A former Labour councillor from North London has been spared a jail term after sending a nude video of himself to someone he believed was a 13-year-old schoolgirl, who was actually an undercover Metropolitan Police officer. Liron Velleman, 31, engaged in explicit online conversations and sent inappropriate images, culminating in the video, but the recipient was a law enforcement officer posing as a minor.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing Details
At Southwark Crown Court, Judge James Lofthouse handed Velleman an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for 15 months, along with 180 hours of community service and 20 rehabilitation days. The judge condemned Velleman's actions as "reckless, vile, and frankly devious," emphasizing that this could have involved a real child. Velleman pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child and attempting to cause a child to view sexual images.
Impact on Personal and Professional Life
The case has devastated Velleman's life, leading to his resignation as a councillor for Whetstone in Barnet, the end of his marriage, and limited contact with his young son. He was previously involved with the Jewish Labour Movement and anti-racism group Hope Not Hate. Prosecutor Edmund Blackman detailed how Velleman used aliases like "Tim Graham 95" on platforms such as Chatib and Snapchat, where conversations quickly turned sexual.
Undercover Operation and Evidence
The undercover officer, using the name Kaylee, was approached by Velleman in December 2024, with Velleman aware of her supposed age. Messages included requests for pictures in clothing like dressing gowns and school uniforms, and Velleman sent images of himself in underwear and a video of his penis. Defence lawyer Scott Brady KC noted that Velleman's life is "in tatters" and he sought help from the Stop It Now service post-arrest.
Legal Consequences and Future Restrictions
Velleman will be on the Sex Offenders Register and under a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 10 years, plus must pay £337 in costs and surcharges. The Labour Party did not comment on his resignation, and a by-election was held to replace him. This case highlights the severe repercussions of online grooming and the role of undercover operations in combating child exploitation.
