Q&A: ‘Paedophile Hunters’, citizens’ arrests & prison killers

Q&A: ‘Paedophile Hunters’, citizens’ arrests & prison killers

From The Crime Agents by Global

April 20, 2026 · 24 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the role of 'Paedophile Hunters', the implications of citizens' arrests, and the impact of social media on crime.

'Paedophile Hunters': vigilantes who attempt to lure and confront suspected sex offenders, before calling the police in an attempt to entrap them and have them arrested. But are these self-appointed groups a help or hindrance to the authorities? Do their stunts lead to more sex offenders being convicted? Or do they just waste police time? Andy & Neil explain how this phenomenon has grown over the last few years, and whether 'Paedophile Hunters' are a problem for police, or part of a solution. Later, Neil explains whether members of the public would be wise to attempt a citizens' arrest on a police officer if they suspect the officer is committing a crime, and Andy reveals what happens if a prisoner who's already serving time for a serious offence kills a fellow prisoner. Plus, Andy & Neil look at the role social media played in radicalising the Southport attacker, and whether this strengthens the case for banning children from using social media. Have a question for a future episode? Send it via email to thecrimeagents@global.com or follow us on social media @thecrimeagents

People in this episode

Hosts: Andy, Neil

Topics covered

  • Paedophile Hunters
  • citizens' arrests
  • prison killers
  • social media
  • vigilantism
  • law enforcement

Keywords

  • Paedophile Hunters
  • citizens' arrest
  • prison killers
  • social media
  • vigilantism
  • law enforcement
  • sex offenders
  • Southport attacker

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Paedophile Hunters, police

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