DANIEL SMITH FROM MANSFIELD FAILS TO REDUCE INDEFINITE SENTENCE FOR CHILD INDECENCY PHOTOGRAPHS

In December 2009, a Mansfield man named Daniel Smith faced a significant legal setback when his attempt to have his indefinite sentence reduced was denied by the Court of Appeal in London.

Smith, aged 35 and residing on Portland Street in Mansfield, was originally sentenced in January after being found in possession of indecent photographs on his mobile phone. The images, all taken within his own home, contributed to his conviction and subsequent sentencing. The court heard that Smith had failed to notify police of his whereabouts on multiple occasions, breaching the conditions of his notification order.

His bid to overturn the sentence was heard before Mr Justice Saunders and Mr Justice Stadlen. However, the appeal was unsuccessful, and the judges dismissed his request for a reduction. Mr Justice Saunders emphasized Smith’s criminal history, which includes a long record of indecency offences against children. He pointed out that due to the severity of Smith’s convictions, he was required to keep the police informed of his location, a requirement he repeatedly failed to comply with.

Justice Saunders further stated, “Smith has a long record for offences of indecency against children, among others. Because of the nature of his convictions, he has had to notify the police as to where he is living and has persistently failed to comply with the order.” He added that the sentencing judge was correct in deeming Smith a dangerous individual, a conclusion supported by various reports presented during the case.

As a result of his conviction, Smith is required to serve a minimum of three years before he can be considered for parole. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of his offences and the ongoing concerns regarding his potential risk to the public.