BLAKE STEWART FROM JACOBS WELL ESCAPES JAIL AFTER POSSESSING INDECENT PICTURES OF 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN GUILDFORD

In a case that has shocked the local community of Jacobs Well and the wider Guildford area, Blake Stewart, a 20-year-old man from Queenhythe Road, Jacobs Well, faced the courts in connection with disturbing allegations involving a minor. Stewart appeared at Guildford Crown Court on Wednesday, April 12, to answer charges related to the possession of an indecent photograph of a young girl and encouraging her to watch a sexual act online.

The charges stem from incidents that took place between June 1 and June 19 of the previous year, when Stewart was 19 years old. During the proceedings, it was revealed that Stewart had been using the popular messaging platform Snapchat at the time of the offences. The court was informed that he had pleaded guilty to possessing an indecent image of a child and causing or inciting a child to view a sexual act for his own sexual gratification.

Additionally, there was a third charge of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, which was ordered to lie on the file after Stewart denied involvement in that particular offence. Prosecutor Anthony Prosser detailed the case, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations and the disturbing nature of the offences.

In the courtroom, Stewart’s legal representative, Emma Goodall, requested that he be remanded on bail until the sentencing hearing scheduled for April 12, citing the need for a psychological report and pre-sentence assessments. Judge Stephen Climie agreed to this request but issued a stern warning to Stewart, emphasizing the gravity of his actions. The judge stated, “I’m sure you appreciate that the offences you have pleaded guilty to are very serious indeed.”

Judge Climie also made it clear that the possibility of an immediate custodial sentence remained, warning Stewart, “Don’t assume the fact that I am granting you bail is any indication of the sentence that will be passed. I will keep an open mind.”

Following the guilty plea, Stewart was sentenced to a two-year community order. As part of his punishment, he will undergo a 40-day rehabilitation programme aimed at addressing his behaviour. Furthermore, a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order was imposed, restricting his activities and access to certain online platforms. Stewart was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £85 and will be subject to a curfew from 9 pm to 5 am.

This case highlights the ongoing concerns about online exploitation and the importance of vigilance in protecting minors from such disturbing crimes. The community of Jacobs Well and the surrounding areas remain watchful as authorities continue to combat these serious offences.