A BUSINESSMAN WHO ADMITTED BEING ADDICTED TO LOOKING AT IMAGES OF CHILDREN BEING ABUSED HAS BEEN PUT BEHIND BARS.
Over three years ago, police apprehended Matthew Smith after he was deceived by an undercover officer, with whom he had shared indecent images.During proceedings at Newcastle Crown Court, it was conveyed that the 51-year-old had circulated images featuring children aged from four to ten.
Prosecutor Claire Anderson revealed that Smith admitted to using these images for sexual pleasure.
She told the court: "In June 2017, the defendant engaged in a chatroom activity.
An undercover officer identified as 'Alex' participated in this conversation." Ms Anderson explained that Smith posted numerous indecent photographs, some portraying young girls in sexual positions.
The court further heard that in discussions with 'Alex', Smith stated a particular liking for girls between the ages of three and six.
The officer also mentioned that Smith’s partner had two daughters, aged eight and 13, to which he responded with the remark, "Mmm, very rape-able." Following his arrest, police forensic analysis uncovered four Category A images of children aged four to ten.
Additional findings included four Category B images and one Category C image, the latter showing a naked girl in a bath.
During police interviews, Smith accepted full responsibility, admitting guilt and expressing shame, as stated by Ms Anderson.
His legal representative, Lee Fish, said that Smith, a previously well-regarded businessman, had become embroiled in online pornography.
Mr Fish noted that Smith came forward to police over two years earlier and confessed, though the legal process had experienced delays.
He argued that Smith had taken steps toward rehabilitation, including participating voluntarily in a six-month counselling program recommended by authorities.
According to Mr Fish, "He has tried to confront his actions, understand his motives, and prevent future offending." Ultimately, Smith pleaded guilty to three counts of distributing indecent images and was sentenced to two years in prison by Mr Recorder Jonathan Sandiford QC.
The judge emphasized: "There needs to be an appropriate penalty for these crimes, therefore I cannot suspend the sentence."
