NHS worker who bragged about abusing boy, 13, goes to meet victim for sex but is met by police at train station

Robin Hains, of St Mary's Close, Lavant, Chichester, travelled to Southampton through Portsmouth from Bognor Regis to meet a 13-year-old boy for sex. But following an investigation by officers from the South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU), Hains was caught red-handed.

The 46-year-old was arrested on March 8 in Shirley, Southampton, having travelled from Bognor Regis, expecting to meet a 13-year-old boy. He arrived in Southampton but was instead met by police officers from SEROCU and Hampshire police.

SEE ALSO: Arson arrest

Hains had used a messaging platform that morning and bragged about the abuse to another man. He pleaded guilty at Southampton Crown Court to arranging to commit a sexual act upon a child and three offences relating to indecent images.

It was discovered at the time of his arrest that he was working for University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust in a urology department.

Detective constable Colin Haynes, of SEROCU, said: ‘Thankfully no children were ever in danger during this investigation. Despite this, Hains clearly intended to meet and abuse a child, something he would have known is illegal, until he was stopped by officers as part of a SEROCU investigation, with assistance from Hampshire Constabulary.

‘We work in partnership to safeguard children who may be vulnerable or at risk, to ensure those in society who pose the greatest harm to children by committing such offences are investigated and brought before the courts.’

Hains was bailed to appear at Southampton Crown Court where he is due to be sentenced on January 13. He had initially pleaded not guilty to the offences before changing his mind.

A police statement added: ‘If you are concerned about your thoughts or behaviour towards children or those of someone else, please seek help and support via the Stop it Now! confidential helpline on 0808 1000 900. Further support is available from the Lucy Faithfull Foundation.

‘If you believe offences have been committed, please report this to your local police force by calling the non-emergency number 101 or 999 in an emergency.’