A soldier in the Household Cavalry was sentenced to 12 years in prison for plotting to sexually assault two children, including a ten-month-old infant. Graham Jarvis, 38, communicated online with an undercover police officer posing as the mother of the children, believing he was arranging an attack on the infant and a seven-year-old girl. The offenses were discussed in messages exchanged in 2024.

Jarvis, who was based at barracks in Knightsbridge, central London, agreed to travel to Wales with the intent to commit the crimes. During the online interactions, he expressed a sexual interest in children and teenage girls, stating he would “play” with the children. Judge Adam Hiddleston described Jarvis as “cold and calculated” and said he viewed children solely as objects for his gratification. The judge emphasized that Jarvis intended to commit grave offenses against vulnerable and defenseless children and that the plan was believed to be genuine by the defendant.

The court heard that Jarvis was charged with two counts of arranging to commit a child sex offense. He showed no emotion as he was sentenced and will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order and a lifelong requirement to notify authorities of his whereabouts. Following his release, Jarvis will also be on license for an additional two years, reflecting the court’s assessment that he remains a danger to children.

Prosecutor Katie Mustard told Southwark Crown Court that Jarvis quickly inquired about the children’s ages and openly admitted his illicit interest early in the conversations. She quoted Jarvis stating, “I’m into girls. I want to meet up. I’ve been messed about so much.” The exchanges were described by the judge and jury as disturbing and horrifying.

Jarvis’s legal representative, Lisa Wilson, noted that he had been dismissed by the Ministry of Defence following his conviction in April after a four-day trial. She remarked that his offenses occurred during a difficult period in his life and called attention to his previously good military record. Jarvis had been court-martialed in 2009 and received 30 days’ detention for passing counterfeit currency.

The Household Cavalry, known for its ceremonial duties such as protecting the King and providing escorts at state events, holds a prestigious position in the British military. Its personnel are frequently seen at prominent locations, including the Horse Guards parade in Whitehall.