A 45-year-old man from Cannock faces over two years behind bars after admitting to multiple breaches of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and failing to notify authorities about required devices.
Previous Conviction and Suspended Sentence
Neil Fillingham received a 16-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, in January 2024. The charges stemmed from causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and engaging in sexual communication with a child. Courts also imposed a 10-year SHPO as part of the penalties.
New Breaches Uncovered
Just one year later, in January 2025, authorities received reports that Fillingham was potentially communicating with children via Instagram and Kik. Officers arrested him at his home and seized an undeclared phone. Investigators recovered deleted messages from the device.
Further evidence emerged of Fillingham using additional electronic devices for online communication. Police seized an iPhone and iPad provided by his employer, which he had not reported, violating SHPO conditions.
Court Sentencing
On Thursday, April 30, at Stafford Crown Court, Fillingham pleaded guilty to 11 counts of breaching the SHPO and one count of failing to comply with sex offenders register notification requirements. The court sentenced him to two years and eight months in prison.
Police Statement
A Staffordshire Police spokesperson stated: “Neil Fillingham, 45, was jailed for two years and eight months after admitting the breaches. Our dedicated team managing violent and sexual offenders works daily to ensure compliance with court orders. Those who violate conditions face swift and firm action through the courts.”
