PETER SHIMMAN OF HATFIELD CAUGHT WITH CHILD PORNOGRAPHY AND NAKED CHILDREN FOOTAGE

In August 2005, a disturbing case emerged involving Peter Shimman, a teacher from Hatfield, who was found to possess an alarming collection of over 5,000 pornographic images depicting children. The investigation revealed that Shimman, aged 50 and a married father of one, had been downloading these illicit images over a span of seven years, raising serious concerns about his conduct and the safety of children.

Police officers executed a search warrant at Shimman’s residence in Hatfield, uncovering not only the extensive collection of images but also a disturbing film featuring two young girls. The footage showed the children playing, and a segment of the film depicted them naked, which added to the gravity of the charges against him. The discovery of such material indicated a clear violation of privacy and a potential threat to the well-being of the children involved.

During the court proceedings at St Albans Crown Court, Shimman pleaded guilty to 20 charges related to the possession and distribution of indecent images. The court was informed that he had been employed in the teaching profession for two decades, which heightened the concern given his access to children and the trust placed in him by the community.

Judge Findlay Baker QC addressed the court, emphasizing the severity of the invasion of privacy caused by the images of the two children playing. He described the act as a gross intrusion into their personal lives and expressed understanding of the distress such material could cause to the children’s parents. The judge’s comments underscored the serious nature of the offense and its impact on the victims and their families.

As part of his sentencing, Shimman was placed on probation for three years, a measure intended to monitor his conduct and prevent further offenses. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of five years, reflecting the court’s recognition of the potential risk he posed to the community and the importance of ongoing supervision.