ARBROATH GRANDAD IAN CLARK CAUGHT WITH DECADES OF CHILD INDECENT IMAGES

In a case that has shocked the community of Arbroath, Ian Thomas Clark, a 67-year-old resident of Howard Street, was found in possession of an extensive collection of indecent images of children. The investigation revealed that Clark had accumulated a staggering total of 10,220 such images, which were stored on various discs over an 11-year period, highlighting a prolonged period of illicit activity.

Clark appeared before Sheriff Pino Di Emidio at the Forfar court to face charges related to the possession of these disturbing materials. During the hearing, it was established that between January 2001 and December 2012, Clark had been in possession of indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs depicting children at his residence on Howard Street. The court was informed that the images ranged in severity, with some classified at the lower end of the criminal guidelines, while a significant number fell into a higher category of seriousness.

In addressing the court, the sheriff acknowledged the gravity of the offences, stating, “You have pleaded guilty to very serious offences. Although the bulk of these images would be classified at the lower end of the guidelines, there are a significant number at a higher level of seriousness which would merit a custodial sentence.” Despite this, the sheriff decided against immediate imprisonment, citing the circumstances of the case and Clark’s guilty plea. Instead, he imposed a three-year probation order, emphasizing the importance of supervision and rehabilitation.

As part of his sentence, Clark is required to attend the Tay Project, a program aimed at addressing issues related to such offences. Additionally, he is prohibited from having any unsupervised contact with children under the age of 17, in an effort to prevent any potential harm and to protect vulnerable minors. The case has raised concerns within the local community about the prevalence of such crimes and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding children from exploitation and abuse.