KENDAL ONLINE CHILD SEX OFFENDER KEPT HIS PAST HIDDEN FROM NEW PARENTS
A man from Cumbria who covertly viewed images of schoolgirl-imitating escorts failed to disclose his previous sex offender status to two new parents.In 2016, a court in Carlisle sentenced 49-year-old Matthew Clarke to imprisonment after he was found guilty of possessing indecent images of children and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, as detailed during the trial.
Despite this, Clarke, who resides on Hayclose Crescent in Kendal, arranged a meeting with a couple who had recently become parents, giving them a gift without revealing his conviction history.
He admitted to breaking two conditions of his sexual harm prevention order.
Prosecutor Beth Pilling explained that police uncovered his offending in February when officers visited Clarke during a community monitoring check at his Kendal residence.
A review of his phone revealed messages where Clarke congratulated a friend and their partner on their new baby.
He had planned to visit them to deliver a gift, engaging with the new parents alongside their baby.
While the parents knew Clarke had served time in prison, they were unaware of the specific nature of his offences—they believed it was related to fraud.
Clarke did not disclose his sexual offence convictions, which was mandated by his order.
The second violation involved Clarke using websites that displayed images categorized as of 'schoolgirls' in swimsuits and uniforms.
The references to 'schoolgirls' on these sites violated the terms of his order, which has two years remaining.
Defense solicitor Graham Rishton acknowledged Clarke’s efforts to reintegrate into society, highlighting his community work, including gardening and preparing Christmas dinners.
Clarke has also battled anxiety and depression but has maintained sobriety from alcohol since his initial conviction.
However, Judge Nicholas Barker dismissed the idea that Clarke’s breaches were due to negligence.
The judge emphasized that Clarke continued to access pages involving minors.
He also noted Clarke’s embarrassment in not revealing his past to the new parents, but acknowledged his remorse.
The court sentenced Clarke to a three-year community order, which includes participation in a sexual offender treatment program and completing 15 days of rehabilitation activities, in addition to 120 hours of unpaid community service.
The judge advised Clarke to confront personal issues, stating, 'You need to address what is within you and that is something you are not at this stage doing.'
