A MAN travelled across the country to meet and abuse an 11-year-old child in Southampton. 

Daniel Castel-Nuovo of Harrogate Street, Netherfield arranged to meet and abuse the child after conversations they had online. 

The 48-year-old travelled from his home in Nottinghamshire to Southampton on May 17 to meet them. 

But instead he was met by officers from the South East regional Organised Crime Unit. 

It was later found that he had brought items including sweets, condoms, lubricant, wet wipes and baby oil with him. 

No real children were involved or harmed in the operation. 

Castel-Nuovo was charged with with arranging or facilitating the commission of a child sexual offence on the same day. 

Last Friday he pleaded guilty at a hearing at Southampton Crown Court and was sentenced that day to two-and-a-half years’ imprisonment. 

He was also issued with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life. 

Detective Inspector James Oxley, from SEROCU, said: “Castel-Nuovo’s conviction following a proactive SEROCU investigation reflects our continued priority to protect children from sexual exploitation from those who seek to do them harm.

"HH Judge Burrell commented on the awful nature of the offence and the impact it had on his family, who were present in court. He will now spend time in prison where he can reflect upon his actions. 

“If you or anyone you know has been a victim of child sexual abuse, please report it to your local police force. We will always follow up allegations of abuse, no matter when they occurred.

"Victims can talk in confidence to experienced Investigators and we can also help with access to a range of other support services.” 

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