In 2026, the Offender Database recorded that David Blackwood, 58, of Trinity Road, Combe Down, Bath, was jailed for 12 months for targeting young girls in public. On appearing at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 3 March 2026, the defendant admitted to engaging in sexual communication with two girls under the age of 16. It was reported that Blackwood approached the children near Bath and asked them a sexually explicit question, a direct violation of the law and his existing court orders.
The investigation established that Blackwood was already a registered sex offender at the time of the incident. Avon and Somerset Police reported that his actions represented a significant breach of the public’s trust and the specific restrictions placed upon him. The prosecution reported that Blackwood failed to comply with the requirements of the Sex Offenders Register and breached a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) by approaching and communicating with the minors.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The court reported that Blackwood’s behaviour was a calculated attempt to engage with vulnerable young people despite being legally barred from doing so. Bristol Magistrates’ Court heard how the incident caused distress to the victims and necessitated an immediate police response to protect the community. The investigation established that Blackwood’s history of sexual offending meant he was fully aware of the illegality of his actions near Bath.
The Presiding Magistrate noted the necessity of an immediate custodial term to address the risk Blackwood posed. For his actions in Combe Down, Blackwood was handed a 12-month prison sentence. The judge noted that his repeated failure to adhere to his registration requirements and the breach of his SHPO made incarceration the only suitable option to ensure public safety.
Status and Statutory Requirements
For the crimes reported in England, the status of David Blackwood is as follows:
- Custodial Sentence: 12 months in prison (2026).
- Fines/Fees: £187 victim surcharge and £84 court costs.
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements were maintained for a further 10 years.
- SHPO Status: Breach recorded; strict monitoring conditions remain in effect.
- Judicial Oversight: Sentenced at Bristol Magistrates’ Court following an Avon and Somerset Police investigation.
- Criminal Record: Sexual communication with a child; Breach of SHPO; Failure to comply with register requirements.
- Origin: Trinity Road, Combe Down, Bath, Somerset.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Blackwood is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by the police and the National Probation Service in Somerset. Due to the predatory nature of his conduct in Combe Down and his willingness to ignore court-mandated restrictions, his management is subject to scrutiny. Authorities state that his 10-year registration period and his SHPO are essential tools to ensure he is subject to residency checks and is prevented from approaching children in public spaces in Bath or elsewhere.
As a member of the Sex Offenders Register, Blackwood must comply with all notification requirements regarding his identity and residence. Authorities state that his history of sexual offending and non-compliance in Somerset necessitates permanent vigilance. Any future attempt to approach minors, breach his SHPO, or fail to notify the police of his movements in Bath or elsewhere will result in immediate arrest and a return to the court system for a significant period of incarceration.
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