GRAHAM SMITH FROM HATFIELD AND POTTERS BAR JAILED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

In a case that has shocked the communities of Hatfield and Potters Bar, Graham Smith, a former physical education teacher, has been sentenced to prison for heinous crimes involving a minor and the possession of explicit material depicting child abuse.

Smith, who previously taught at Onslow St Audrey's School in Hatfield, was found guilty of engaging in sexual acts with a young girl, whom he assaulted multiple times in various locations including an equipment cupboard within the school premises, his personal vehicle, and during a school-organized trip. The victim, now in her 30s, revealed that she had kept the abuse a secret for nearly 17 years before finally coming forward to law enforcement authorities.

Following her disclosure, police investigations uncovered that Smith was also under suspicion for possessing and downloading over 10,000 images and videos of child pornography. This led to his arrest and a subsequent raid on his residence in Potters Bar. Despite being under investigation, Smith continued to download these disturbing images, even while at his mother’s home on Acacia Avenue in Dorset.

During the court proceedings, Smith pleaded guilty to three counts of indecent assault and 17 charges related to the creation, possession, and distribution of child pornography. Prosecutor Beverly Cripps addressed the court, stating, “Smith used his charm and affection to manipulate the young girl, creating a false sense of closeness and trust. He made her feel special and mature, even giving her cigarettes. He also warned her never to write anything down, implying that if she did, he could face imprisonment.”

Smith’s defense attorney, Iain Ross, emphasized that his client had no prior criminal record and expressed hope that the victim would eventually be able to move past the trauma. However, the judge, Stephen Warner, delivered a stern sentence, condemning Smith’s actions as contributing to a market for such depraved material, which involves the abuse and degradation of children. The judge stated, “Your conduct involves the production and distribution of this material, which is clearly based on the abuse of young children.”

As part of his sentence, Smith was banned from working with children, required to register as a sex offender, and restricted from using computers and the internet. The case has left a lasting impact on the local communities of Hatfield and Potters Bar, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and justice in protecting vulnerable minors from exploitation and abuse.