PETER BILLING FROM PADSTOW CAUGHT WITH CHILD INDECENT IMAGES AND HARASSMENT CASES

In December 2008, authorities uncovered disturbing evidence involving Peter Billing, a resident of Raleigh Close in Padstow, who was found to possess a significant collection of indecent images of children. The case came to light after Billing, who was previously banned from a local store due to his inappropriate behavior towards female staff, drew police attention.

Following reports of his harassment, law enforcement officers conducted a search of Billing's residence. During the investigation, they discovered a total of 119 computer images depicting underage children engaged in inappropriate acts. Of these images, two were classified at a high level of seriousness, indicating their disturbing nature. Additionally, three photographs had been processed at a shop located in Wadebridge, suggesting that Billing had attempted to obtain or manipulate images in public settings.

Billing, aged 51, also known by the alias Elliot, faced four charges related to the possession of these indecent images. His criminal history includes a previous conviction for making threats to kill after targeting a 12-year-old girl. In that incident, Billing sent threatening letters to the girl’s mother, explicitly stating his intentions to abduct, rape, and kill her daughter. This history underscored a pattern of concerning behavior.

During the court proceedings at Truro Crown Court, Judge Christopher Elwen addressed the case, emphasizing that the public interest would be best served by a combination of punishment and rehabilitative measures. The judge noted that no one had argued for a prison sentence in this instance, suggesting that Billing’s case might benefit more from intervention aimed at addressing underlying issues.

Prosecutor Ron Ede highlighted the severity of the images, noting that two of the 119 photographs were at a particularly serious level. He also pointed out that Billing claimed the images, which had been sent to him by a friend, were intended to be disposed of but that he had never followed through with that plan. Defense lawyer Malcolm Clarke argued that Billing was seeking help for his unhealthy interest in young girls and that his only close family member was his 83-year-old mother, who remained his sole source of support.

Judge Elwen acknowledged the damaging impact of such exploitation on victims, emphasizing that the abuse causes lasting mental, psychological, and sometimes physical harm. Recognizing that Billing had underlying issues that needed addressing, the court imposed a community order. This order requires Billing to undergo three years of supervision and participate in the Thames Valley sex offender rehabilitation program. Additionally, he is mandated to register as a sex offender, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

Overall, the case highlights the serious nature of child exploitation crimes and the importance of both punishment and rehabilitation in addressing offenders like Peter Billing from Padstow.