GARY LITTLEFAIR SHAMES OTTERTON INNOCENCE WITH CHILD PORNOGRAPHY AND EVIDENCE DESTROYING CRIME

In April 2009, a disturbing case unfolded involving Gary Littlefair, a 60-year-old resident of Fore Street, Otterton, who was found guilty of possessing and distributing indecent images of children, as well as attempting to obstruct justice. The incident came to light when police executed a raid on his residence, revealing a series of troubling actions and digital evidence that painted a grim picture of his criminal behavior.

According to court reports, Littlefair, a former Royal Marine, was visibly distressed during the proceedings, weeping as he was sentenced to 24 weeks in prison, though the sentence was suspended for two years. His guilty plea covered multiple charges, including the possession of indecent images, the distribution of one such image, and attempting to hinder the investigation.

Prosecutor Martin Kenny detailed the events that transpired on July 2, 2007, when police officers arrived at Littlefair’s home. As officers entered, Littlefair allegedly attempted to destroy evidence by feigning illness. He claimed to feel unwell, clutching his stomach and insisting he needed to go to the toilet. During this act, he was observed snapping three CDs into pieces and discarding them out of the bathroom window, in an apparent effort to conceal digital evidence.

A subsequent search of Littlefair’s personal computer uncovered a disturbing collection of images. The investigation revealed that he had downloaded a total of 72 images, categorized across different levels of severity. Specifically, there were 63 images classified as level one, which is considered the least offensive, along with four images at level two, two at level three, and three at level four. These images are graded on a scale from one to five, with higher levels indicating more severe content.

During the court proceedings, defense attorney Kelly Scrivener explained that Littlefair’s interest in indecent images of children reportedly began after he stumbled upon such material while browsing legal adult websites. She emphasized that he was remorseful for his actions. Despite this, some members of his family, including his wife, expressed support for him but made it clear that they did not condone his behavior.

Judge Paul Darlow addressed the court, emphasizing the seriousness of the offenses. He ordered that Littlefair be subjected to two years of supervision, adhere strictly to a Sex Offenders Prevention Order, and have his details entered onto the Sex Offender Register indefinitely. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the distribution and possession of child exploitation material, as well as the importance of monitoring offenders to prevent further harm.