Derby Paedophile Confesses to 164 Sex Offences Against More Than 130 Children
Siah Riley, a 35-year-old from Derby, has admitted to a staggering 164 online child sex offences targeting over 130 young victims, marking one of the most extensive cases of its kind in the Midlands region. The defendant entered his guilty pleas during a hearing at Derby Crown Court on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, and now faces a substantial prison sentence for his crimes.
Detailed Breakdown of the Charges
In court, Riley pleaded guilty to 144 charges, which included:
- 117 counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity
- 22 counts of blackmail
- 5 counts of engaging in sexual communication with a child
Additionally, he denied a single charge of arranging or facilitating the commission of a child sex offence, which has been left on file by the prosecution. This comprehensive admission follows earlier court appearances in February and April 2025, where Riley had already confessed to 20 separate child sex offences. Those previous charges encompassed similar acts, such as causing or inciting sexual activity, blackmail, engaging in sexual communication with a child, breaching a sexual harm prevention order, and making indecent images.
Investigation and Arrest Timeline
Derbyshire Constabulary initiated the investigation in 2023 after receiving reports of child sex offences involving two initial victims. Upon arresting Riley, officers seized his electronic devices and uncovered what they described as "a huge catalogue of material relating to online sex offences against at least 132 children." This discovery prompted further action, leading to his rearrest in February 2025. Subsequently, he was formally charged and remanded into custody, where he has remained awaiting trial.
The police emphasised the scale and severity of the offences, highlighting the extensive digital evidence that linked Riley to numerous victims across multiple online platforms. This case underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combating online child exploitation and the critical role of digital forensics in securing convictions.
Upcoming Sentencing and Legal Proceedings
Siah Riley, residing at Walbrook Road in Derby, is scheduled to be sentenced on May 7, 2026. The court will consider the totality of his admissions, including the 164 offences, when determining an appropriate prison term. Legal experts anticipate a lengthy sentence given the sheer volume of crimes and the profound impact on the victims involved.
This case has drawn significant attention from child protection advocates and community groups, who are calling for stricter measures to prevent such offences and better support for survivors. It also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by online predators and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding children in digital spaces.
