PAUL CLEVETT FROM HARTFIELD SENTENCED IN FOREST ROW FOR CHILD INDECENCY IMAGES

In a case that has shocked the local community, Paul Clevett, a 47-year-old resident of Hartfield, has been formally sentenced after admitting to possessing indecent images of children. The incident came to light when police uncovered evidence of inappropriate online communications involving a schoolboy, which led to further investigations.

Paul Clevett, who has been a familiar face in the area of Forest Row for many years, particularly known for his role as a crossing guard outside a primary school, appeared before Lewes Crown Court to face the charges. His long-standing involvement in helping children cross the road since 1996 made the allegations even more disturbing to the community.

The court proceedings revealed that the charges against Clevett were related to messages sent via Facebook, which were deemed inappropriate and concerning. The police's discovery of these messages prompted a thorough investigation, ultimately leading to his guilty plea.

As part of his sentencing, Clevett was handed a 12-month community order, requiring him to comply with certain conditions and supervision. Additionally, he was issued a sexual offences prevention order that will remain in effect for seven years, restricting his online activity and contact with minors. In a further measure to prevent any future misuse of technology, the court ordered that Clevett's computers be destroyed.

The case has raised questions and concerns among residents of Hartfield and Forest Row, especially given Clevett's longstanding role in the community and his history of working with children. Authorities emphasized the importance of vigilance and the need for thorough background checks in roles involving children, even for individuals with long-standing community service records.