DAVID SMITH FROM NEYLAND JAILED FOR CHILD SEX IMAGE OFFENSES IN SWANSEA

In April 2018, a man from Neyland named David Leonard Smith was sentenced to prison after being found guilty of possessing and distributing child sexual images, as well as viewing extreme pornography involving women and animals. The incident unfolded when police officers visited Smith's residence on Kensington Road to investigate his internet activity, as he was already under a suspended prison sentence at the time.

Prosecutor Dean Pulling explained to Swansea Crown Court that Smith initially claimed to only own a mobile phone, denying any involvement with a computer or internet-connected device. However, during the search of his home, officers discovered an internet router connected to a Samsung laptop, which Smith refused to acknowledge owning. The officers proceeded to search the premises further and uncovered the computer hidden beneath a pile of magazines. Upon opening the device, an adult pornography website immediately appeared on the screen, confirming suspicions.

Further examination of the laptop revealed that Smith possessed a total of 13 indecent images of children, alongside nine images depicting extreme pornography involving women and animals. Evidence also indicated that Smith had engaged in swapping indecent images with another internet user, suggesting an active exchange of such illicit material.

Smith admitted to charges of possessing and creating indecent images, as well as distributing them. He also breached a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that had been imposed on him during his previous sentencing in August 2016. The court heard that Smith had shown a blatant disregard for the restrictions placed upon him, continuing his illegal activities despite the prior order.

Judge Geraint Walters addressed Smith’s attitude during the proceedings, stating that he was “hugely” in denial about his actions and had learned nothing from his previous court experience. The judge also noted the deviousness involved in this case, highlighting Smith’s attempts to conceal his activities.

As a result, Smith was sentenced to 16 months in prison. Additionally, Judge Walters activated 12 months of the previously suspended sentence, resulting in a total of 28 months of incarceration for Smith’s repeated offenses and violations.