On Wednesday, 14 January 2026, the Offender Database reported that Adam Pugh, 42, of Southmead, Bristol, was handed a severe 17-year extended prison sentence at Bristol Crown Court. Pugh admitted to a catalogue of vile online crimes against children, which detectives described as a campaign of grooming for his own sexual gratification.
The investigation by Avon and Somerset Police’s Internet Child Abuse Team (ICAT) began in October 2025. This followed a referral identifying indecent messages and images being shared by Pugh with what he believed was a 13-year-old girl. Detectives traced the account to his home in Southmead, leading to his swift arrest.
Vile Exploitation and Breached Trust
Specialist officers searched Pugh’s residence and callously uncovered multiple mobile phones. These devices were being used in direct breach of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) he was already subject to. A review of the phones revealed further indecent communications and a hoard of indecent images of children.
Pugh pleaded guilty to 15 offences committed between August and October 2025, including:
- Two counts of engaging in sexual communication with a child.
- One count of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity.
- One count of attempting to arrange a sexual offence with a child.
- Three counts of making indecent photographs of a child.
- Three counts of breaching his Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Detective Inspector Laura Newton emphasised that Pugh is a dangerous individual who callously coerced children into sexual acts and sent indecent images while dishonestly ignoring the court orders meant to stop him.
Extended Sentence and Public Protection
Due to the serious risk he poses, the judge at Bristol Crown Court deemed Pugh dangerous. He was handed an initial nine-year prison sentence, which was later extended by a further eight years, totalling 17 years.
Monitoring and Safeguarding
Adam Pugh will be managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by Avon and Somerset Police. His behaviour and residency in Southmead, Bristol, and the wider area will be under serious lifelong scrutiny.
His Sexual Harm Prevention Order remains in place, and any dishonest attempt to access the internet or contact children will result in an immediate return to prison. Safeguarding young people remains a priority, and authorities continue to work with partner agencies to ensure victims receive the support they need.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.