In 2026, Gary Mellor, aged 43, and Darren Mabey, aged 33, were jailed for a combined total of 21 years at Southampton Crown Court after admitting to child sexual exploitation offences and making indecent images of children.
Gary Mellor, of Castle Street, Salisbury, and Darren Mabey, of Brighton Road, Lewes, were investigated by the Internet Child Abuse Team (ICAT) after officers identified indecent images uploaded online. An investigation launched in July 2024 led to Mellor’s arrest in September 2024, where analysis of his mobile phone revealed illicit images—including content created by Mellor himself—and communications with Mabey. Messages detailed previous interactions with children, plans to “swap” children, and arrangements to meet at local leisure facilities. Officers subsequently arrested Mabey in November 2024, seizing 10 digital devices containing further messages discussing child sexual exploitation alongside additional indecent images.
At Southampton Crown Court, Mellor pleaded guilty to making Category A, B, and C indecent images of children and arranging or facilitating the sexual exploitation of a child under 13. Mabey pleaded guilty to making a Category A indecent image of a child, arranging or facilitating the sexual exploitation of a child under 13, possession of an offensive weapon in a private place, and possession of a Class B controlled drug. On 14 July 2026, Mellor was jailed for 10 years, and Mabey for 11 years.
In addition to their custodial sentences, both men were placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.
They were also made subject to indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Orders (SHPOs) to ensure strict ongoing digital monitoring, public protection, and lifestyle restrictions following their release.
For the latest updates and offender details, follow us on the UK Register Database Facebook Page. 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 how to report a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.