A predatory paedophile who planned sexual attacks on innocent children has been jailed.

Sean Wallace, 43, of Woodside Road, Wood Green, was sentenced to 14 years and six months in prison for arranging the rape of a child under 13 and distributing an indecent image of a child.

During an undercover operation in which a police officer posed online as a woman with access to a child, Wallace contacted the officer asking if he could sexually abuse the fictional child.

He sent sexual images of himself as well as indecent images of other children, Scotland Yard said.

During online chat and telephone calls Wallace spoke openly about his desire to abuse young girls and made arrangements to meet the woman in order that he could rape the child.

Sean Wallace, from Haringey, arranged to rape a child under 13Sean Wallace, from Haringey, arranged to rape a child under 13 (Image: Met Police)

He was arrested at his home address after he failed to attend the planned meeting, stating that he was nervous and needed more time to build up trust with the woman before meeting her.

The examination of his mobile phone identified that Wallace was speaking online to numerous apparently underage girls.

He was charged on August 19, 2022 and held on remand until his sentencing at Wood Green Crown Court on September 19.

Detective Sergeant Robert Blant, whose team led the investigation, said: “Sean Wallace is a dangerous predatory offender, who preyed on innocent and vulnerable young children.

“My team worked around the clock to bring Wallace to justice by going through large amounts of disturbing digital evidence collated from his online activities and seized from his home.

"I’m pleased that as a result of great policing work, we have prevented a dangerous individual from continuing to offend and ruin the lives of children or young people.

“Our dedicated teams will continue to apply their expertise in investigating child sexual offences to safeguard children and young people across London.”

As part of the New Met for London plan, officers are working closely with third sector partners, including The Children’s Society to help young people, parents and carers spot the signs of sexual abuse and predatory behaviour online and offline.