Hertfordshire’s online child protection unit secured 136 years of prison sentences in 2025, targeting online predators and digital offenders.
A specialist online safeguarding team within Hertfordshire Constabulary secured a total of 136 years of prison sentences for online offenders in 2025, the force has announced.
The Child Online Safeguarding Team (COST) , recognised as the constabulary’s Team of the Year in late 2025 — focuses on investigating adults who exploit or target children through digital platforms. The unit handles some of the most complex and distressing online offences, including those involving sexual abuse and the distribution of indecent material.
Throughout the year, COST received 564 case referrals, many of them from the National Crime Agency, whose analysts identify offenders and share details with local forces. These referrals led to several search warrants, arrests and prosecutions.
In total, the team arrested 154 suspects for offences ranging from rape and incest to sharing indecent images of children online. Their investigations resulted in 305 formal charges, with sentences adding up to 136 years in prison. Some individuals received life terms. A further 116 suspects remain on bail while COST continues its inquiries into new cases.
Detective Inspector Fay Tooley, who leads the unit, praised her officers for their unwavering commitment and resilience. She emphasised the challenges of investigating offenders who attempt to conceal their identities online, including on anonymous or encrypted platforms. “Perpetrators may think they can hide behind fake identities or the dark web,” she said, “but we will find them.”
In addition to prosecution work, the team also handles juvenile cases, differentiating between curiosity and serious or harmful online behaviour. Tooley highlighted the importance of parental supervision and early intervention in preventing children from accessing illegal or harmful content.
COST collaborates with partner organisations such as the Lucy Faithfull Foundation, the Internet Watch Foundation, and NSPCC, which provide support and resources for families and caregivers affected by online abuse.
Reports are sourced from official documents, law-enforcement updates, and credible investigations.
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