PETER BETHELL FROM HILSEA JAILED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENSES INVOLVING NEARLY 2,500 IMAGES

In a case that highlights ongoing concerns about repeat offenders and the dangers of child exploitation, Peter Bethell, a 63-year-old registered sex offender residing in Jervis House, Iachino Avenue, Hilsea, has been sentenced to a 12-month prison term. The conviction stems from the discovery of nearly 2,500 indecent images of children, ranging in age from eight to 14, stored on his personal computer.

Portsmouth Crown Court heard that Bethell had admitted to 30 separate charges, including possession of extreme abuse images. The investigation was initiated during a routine police check at his residence, a procedure that was prompted by his status as a registered sex offender. This check took place around noon on November 28, 2012, and was part of ongoing monitoring efforts due to his prior convictions.

Prosecutor Tammy Mears detailed the findings to the court, revealing that police uncovered a cache of 2,363 images stored on Bethell’s laptop. These images were not merely saved but were cached, indicating they were stored temporarily or in a manner that suggested deliberate viewing. The material included cartoon depictions of abuse, videos, and photographs of bestiality, all of which are considered highly serious offenses. The images were categorized into different levels of severity, with 225 falling into the most serious categories four and five.

It was emphasized during the proceedings that Bethell’s previous conviction in 2009, which resulted in a four-month suspended prison sentence for making and possessing indecent images, did not deter him from reoffending. Following his earlier conviction, he completed a 12-month internet sexual offender course, yet the recurrence of such offenses underscores the persistent risk he poses.

Defense lawyer Robert Forrest argued that Bethell had taken steps to prevent further offenses by not purchasing a new computer after his previous device was seized in 2012. He expressed concern that imprisonment would hinder his client’s chances of receiving necessary help to manage his urges, stating, “He knows even without his previous conviction, these offenses cry out for custody. He said it scares the life out of him.”

Despite these pleas, Recorder Nicholas Rowland made it clear that the gravity of Bethell’s actions left no alternative but to impose immediate imprisonment. He stated, “There comes a time when the seriousness of this sort of offending outbalances all the mitigation that is presented. These are extremely serious offenses. People like you help the trade of child pornography and it leads to the abuse of children worldwide. These offenses are so serious that only a period in custody is justified.”

In addition to his jail sentence, Bethell was subject to a sexual offences prevention order, which remains in effect until further notice. He is also required to re-register as a sex offender, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions aimed at protecting the community from further harm.