PETER BAILEY STALKER AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHER FROM SOUTH WOODHAM FERRERS ESCAPES JAIL

In a case that has shocked the community of South Woodham Ferrers, pensioner Peter Bailey, aged 74, was handed a lenient sentence after being found guilty of serious criminal offenses involving the harassment and exploitation of a young girl. Bailey, residing on Meriadoc Drive, was convicted of stalking a 13-year-old girl and possessing a disturbing collection of over 150 indecent images of children, some of which depicted very young girls as young as three to five years old.

Despite the gravity of his crimes, Bailey was spared immediate imprisonment. Last week, Judge Anthony Goldstaub QC sentenced him to eight months in prison, but this sentence was suspended for two years, meaning Bailey will not serve time unless he commits further offenses during this period. The court proceedings revealed that Bailey had pleaded guilty to six counts related to his possession of indecent images during the previous month.

Mark Lakin, representing the Crown, emphasized Bailey’s disturbing preferences, stating, “The images show a significant preference to children of the age range into which the victim falls.” While Bailey did not produce or distribute the images himself, his collection included a variety of material categorized as Grade C, which is considered less severe, along with four images classified as the most serious grade of sexual abuse. The court was informed that some of the images depicted girls as young as three to five years old, highlighting the severity of the material Bailey possessed.

The stalking incident occurred over a week in September of the previous year. Bailey was observed getting on a bus and positioning himself directly opposite the young girl, clearly showing an interest in her. Court documents detailed how he took surreptitious photographs of her during this time. The harassment only ended when the girl’s father became suspicious and contacted the police. An investigation ensued, leading Essex Police to search Bailey’s home, which was a housing association flat. During the search, officers discovered the collection of inappropriate images and material.

Bailey’s actions did not result in immediate imprisonment but did lead to restrictions designed to prevent further harm. He was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and ordered to attend a rehabilitation program for the next two years. Additionally, he was required to pay costs amounting to £500. Judge Goldstaub issued a stern warning to Bailey, emphasizing the potential consequences of future misconduct. The judge stated, “It goes without saying that if you bother or stalk any young girl, that matter will be brought before the courts again and you will be sent to prison for a lengthy term.” The case has raised concerns about the adequacy of sentencing for such serious offenses, but for now, Bailey remains free under strict conditions, with the community watching closely.