MATTHEW PALMER FROM CHESTERFIELD SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IMAGE OFFENSES IN DERBY

In May 2019, authorities uncovered disturbing evidence of child exploitation involving Matthew Palmer, a resident of Chesterfield. The investigation was initiated after police identified that an internet protocol (IP) address associated with Palmer was being used to download and view illicit images of children. This discovery prompted a police raid on his residence in Prestbury Close, Oakwood, where a thorough search was conducted early in the morning.

During the operation, law enforcement officials seized multiple electronic devices for analysis. The subsequent examination revealed a total of 11 indecent images of children, including two movies classified as Category A, which are considered the most severe. These movies depicted young children of both sexes engaged in sexual activities with adults, highlighting the gravity of the material involved.

Prosecutor Lucy Jones explained that the police became aware of Palmer’s activities between 2015 and 2018. When questioned, Palmer fully admitted to deliberately searching for and downloading these illegal images. He acknowledged his actions during interviews with police and probation officers, demonstrating a level of candor that was noted during proceedings.

Palmer, aged 25 at the time, pleaded guilty to charges related to the possession and download of indecent images of children. Judge Shaun Smith QC addressed the court, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the victims in such cases. He stated, “It is very often said by defendants there are not any victims in cases like this. Of course, there are victims; people in these pictures are victims, and by viewing them, you are contributing to the exploitation and abuse of young children. But I am fully satisfied there is a very real prospect of rehabilitation for you.”

In sentencing, Judge Smith imposed a three-year community order, which requires Palmer to attend an accredited sex offenders’ program for 90 days. Additionally, Palmer was ordered to complete 80 hours of unpaid work, be placed on the sex offenders’ register for five years, and was issued a five-year sexual harm prevention order to restrict his activities and monitor his behavior moving forward.