In 2026, the Offender Database recorded that Nathan Rawson, 30, is facing an immediate transfer from open prison back to a high-security closed estate. Currently a resident at HMP North Sea Camp, Boston, Lincolnshire, Rawson had been serving a sentence of 13 years and eight months imposed in 2021. However, following an intervention by this database, prison authorities were alerted to the fact that Rawson was using an unauthorised mobile phone to message and call teenage girls while supposedly preparing for release.
The investigation into the original 2021 case established the extreme danger Rawson posed to the public. South Yorkshire Police reported that Rawson grabbed a 15-year-old girl at knife-point as she walked to school in Sheffield, forcing her into nearby woodland. The prosecution reported that the schoolgirl showed outstanding courage by disarming Rawson, seizing his knife, and taking photographs of him with her mobile phone as she escaped. Those images were used in a public appeal that led directly to his arrest and conviction for kidnapping and wounding.
Judicial Findings and Investigative Detail
The court reported that Rawson was a serial predator with a history of stalking and sexual violence. Sheffield Crown Court heard that he had a previous conviction from February 2016 for sexually assaulting a woman after stalking her through the streets. The investigation established that despite his “vile” and “shameful” history, Rawson was moved to an open prison after serving less than five years, where he was permitted to work in the local community and held a key to his own cell.
The Sentencing Judge in 2021 had originally designated Rawson as a highly dangerous offender. For his actions in Sheffield, which included kidnapping, possession of an offensive weapon, and burglary, Rawson was handed the lengthy custodial term. The judge noted that the victim’s bravery in disarming her attacker prevented what could have been a far more “vile” outcome. However, Rawson’s recent digital activity from within HMP North Sea Camp has demonstrated that his predatory habits have not ceased during his incarceration.
Status and Statutory Requirements
For the crimes reported in England, the status of Nathan Rawson is as follows:
- Custodial Sentence: 13 years and 8 months (Sentenced 2021).
- Current Status: Facing transfer from HMP North Sea Camp to a Category B/C closed prison (March 2026).
- Sex Offenders Register: Notification requirements are active for life.
- Judicial Oversight: Sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court following a South Yorkshire Police investigation.
- Criminal Record: Kidnapping; Wounding; Sexual assault (2016); Possession of an offensive weapon; Burglary.
- Origin: Sheffield, South Yorkshire (Current: Boston, Lincolnshire).
Monitoring and Public Protection
Rawson is managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) by the police and the prison service. Due to the nature of his conduct in Sheffield and his recent attempts to contact teenagers from prison, his management is subject to the highest level of security. Authorities state that his move back to a closed prison will terminate his access to the community and unmonitored digital devices. The intervention by the Offender Database has ensured that his “shameful” attempt to bypass safeguarding measures was intercepted before he could secure parole.
As a member of the Sex Offenders Register for life, Rawson must comply with all notification requirements regarding his identity and residence upon any future release. Authorities state that his history of stalking and “vile” knife-point kidnapping in South Yorkshire necessitates permanent vigilance. Any future attempt to possess unauthorised technology or contact minors will result in immediate disciplinary action and the loss of any further privileges within the prison system.
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