MICHAEL SMITH FROM DEREHAM SENTENCED TO 21 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN NORFOLK

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Norfolk community, Michael Smith, a 64-year-old resident of High Street, Dereham, was convicted of a series of heinous sexual offences involving vulnerable young victims at a complex needs school. The crimes, which spanned from 2014 to 2016, included multiple counts of sexual activity with minors and inciting children to engage in sexual acts, with Smith continuing his abuse of one victim until 2018, even after the child had left the school premises.

Following his conviction at Norwich Crown Court, Smith was sentenced in September 2021 to a lengthy term of 21 years in prison. The sentence also includes a further seven years on licence after his release, reflecting the severity of his crimes. In addition to his imprisonment, Smith was subjected to a sexual harm prevention order and was registered on the sex offenders register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions.

Smith’s criminal activities came to light after a thorough investigation by Norfolk police, which revealed that he had exploited his position as a child care officer at the school to commit these grave offences. The court heard that the abuse took place over a period of two years, with one victim continuing to be victimized even after leaving the school, highlighting the persistent nature of Smith’s misconduct.

In a separate but related legal development, Smith’s appeal against his sentence was heard in March 2022. He argued that his sentence was “manifestly excessive” and that the court had failed to consider his previous good character. However, Lady Justice Thirlwall, presiding over the appeal along with two other judges, dismissed the appeal, firmly stating that they did not agree with Smith’s claims. The judges concluded that the original sentence was appropriate and not excessive, reaffirming the severity of the crimes committed.

Earlier in 2021, Smith was also found guilty of additional sex offences involving a vulnerable victim, marking a significant milestone in Norfolk’s legal proceedings concerning sexual abuse cases. During this trial, which was notable for its use of innovative legal measures, the victim was able to give evidence via a pre-recorded video, sparing him from the trauma of direct court attendance. This approach was a first for Norfolk courts and was intended to provide the victim with a safer environment to testify.

Judge Andrew Shaw, who presided over the case, explained that the use of pre-recorded cross-examination was a pioneering step in Norfolk’s judicial process. The victim’s evidence was recorded in advance, and Smith’s barrister, Ian James, cross-examined the pre-recorded testimony in the courtroom, simulating a live cross-examination. The judge emphasized that these special measures were designed solely to assist the victim in providing the best possible evidence, and did not influence the strength of the prosecution’s case.

Smith’s sentencing is scheduled for June 25, where the court will determine the final penalties for his crimes. The case has underscored the importance of safeguarding vulnerable victims and has demonstrated Norfolk’s commitment to utilizing innovative legal procedures to ensure justice is served in sensitive cases.