MARTIN SMITH FROM DIBDEN PURLIEU ESCAPES PRISON AFTER VIEWING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY IN SOUTHAMPTON

In a case that has shocked the local community of Dibden Purlieu, Martin Smith, a 54-year-old man employed as an oil refinery supervisor, was found guilty of possessing and creating indecent images of children and engaging with extreme pornography. The incident came to light in June 2011 when police conducted a raid on his Waterside residence, uncovering a disturbing collection of illicit material on his laptop.

Smith’s actions marked a significant deviation from his previously respectable life. The court heard that he had downloaded over 150 images, some depicting sexual acts involving animals, which are considered particularly vile and disturbing. The investigation was initiated after police received information and subsequently executed a search warrant at his home, leading to the seizure of the incriminating digital evidence.

During the court proceedings at Southampton Crown Court, Judge Gary Burrell QC addressed the gravity of Smith’s offenses. It was revealed that Smith’s personal circumstances had deteriorated following the collapse of his marriage, which appeared to have contributed to his descent into viewing such material. His social circle had abandoned him; former friends had turned their backs, and his teenage daughter had distanced herself, refusing any contact. Additionally, his mother had been subjected to a series of distressing phone calls from strangers, further highlighting the impact of his actions on his family.

Representing Smith, defense lawyer Peter Asteris expressed remorse on his client’s behalf, emphasizing the emotional toll on his family, especially his mother. Asteris stated, “His greatest remorse is the effect it has had on his mother and his family.” He described how Smith had been viewing these images daily, acknowledging that he had sunk to the lowest possible point. The lawyer also noted that Smith recognized his wrongdoing and admitted that his descent into this dark behavior was a voluntary choice.

Smith pleaded guilty to eight charges of making indecent images and five charges of possessing extreme pornography. In sentencing, Judge Burrell opted for a 45-week prison sentence, suspended for a period, coupled with an order requiring Smith to attend a specialized sex offenders’ treatment program. The judge remarked that Smith’s actions were a “sad indictment of your character,” adding, “You have ruined your life. Your family is ashamed of you.”

While a prison sentence could have kept Smith away from society for approximately a year, the judge took into account his social suffering, his guilty plea, and his previously good character. He concluded that Smith was a person in need of help rather than punishment alone, stating, “You are a person who needs help.”

Furthermore, Smith was subjected to a sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits him from accessing the internet for ten years, except for purposes related to employment, education, or lawful recreation. He was also placed on the sex offenders register, marking a significant step in monitoring his future conduct and ensuring community safety.