A Belfast man has been sentenced to 22 months in prison for child sex offences uncovered during an online police operation.

Wilson Lee, 35, was sentenced at Laganside Crown Court on Wednesday 16 September 2026. He received 22 months in custody for attempting to meet a child following sexual grooming, along with a concurrent 18-month term for other offences including attempted sexual communication with a child, attempting to cause or incite a child to engage in sexual activity, and attempted possession of an indecent image.

Lee was also made subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order and placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years.

He was arrested on 29 May 2025 after police identified online communications with an undercover officer posing as a 14-year-old boy. Lee was convicted in July 2026 after entering a guilty plea.

Detective Constable Allen, from the Police Service of Northern Ireland's Child Abuse Investigation Unit, said the sentence was welcomed and that the offender is now behind bars. He said the case demonstrates how offenders use online platforms to gain a child's trust before steering conversations to a sexual nature. He described the behaviour as manipulative and predatory, and said it will not be tolerated.

He said protecting children and young people from sexual exploitation remains a top priority and that police will continue to pursue those who seek to harm children online. He urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant about their children's online activity and to encourage open conversations about staying safe online. Anyone who believes a child may be at risk should report their concerns to police.

He said the case serves as another warning to those perpetrating child sexual abuse in communities, and that police are working every day to break down reporting barriers and encourage victims to come forward. He said offenders will be caught, their lies uncovered, and they will face the full force of the law.