Understanding public perceptions of Paedophile Hunters

Purpose
Paedophile hunting in the UK is an increasing form of vigilantism. Paedophile hunting groups currently do not work collaboratively with the police forces and there are claims that such groups are detrimental to the criminal justice process and place uncharged suspects at harm. The extent of public support for such groups is unknown, and this is a key concern when determining how to tackle the issues that such groups pose for the administration of justice. The purpose of this study is to address this gap and assess the extent to which the public support Paedophile Hunters, and whether this is linked to perceptions of sex offenders.

Design/methodology/approach
A cross-sectional online survey using a quota-controlled sample was undertaken (n = 267), which aimed to understand public perceptions of paedophile hunters, and how strongly this linked with public perceptions of sex offenders.

Findings
The findings reveal that in the UK, there is support for paedophile hunter groups and their work, but respondents are aware of the threats they pose to the administration of justice. Perceptions of paedophile hunters hold an inverse correlation with perceptions of sex offenders.

Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first national survey that addressed perceptions of paedophile hunters, which is important when informing democratic policy. Future research should address why the public support paedophile hunters, to understand whether police methods, policy or legislation should change to appease views of the criminal justice system.