PETER VLASTO FROM HICKLING SENTENCED FOR CHILD INDECENT IMAGES AT NORWICH CROWN COURT

In a case that has shocked the local community of Hickling and the surrounding areas near Great Yarmouth, Peter Vlasto, aged 58, faced justice at Norwich Crown Court after admitting to serious offences involving indecent images of children. The proceedings revealed that Vlasto had been involved in the possession and creation of such images over a span of several years, specifically between 2008 and 2013.

During the court session, it was disclosed that Vlasto was found to have approximately 30 images classified as Class A, which is considered the most severe category of indecent images. These images included photographs of children as young as five years old, highlighting the disturbing nature of the material he possessed. The investigation was initiated after authorities in Canada provided crucial intelligence, which led to the discovery of the illicit content on Vlasto’s computer.

Vlasto, who resides at Long Gores in Hickling, a village near Great Yarmouth, was brought before the court to face the consequences of his actions. The police’s findings confirmed that he had not only possessed these images but had also engaged in the creation of some of them, further aggravating the severity of his crimes.

Judge Stephen Holt, presiding over the case, sentenced Vlasto to a total of 12 months in prison. In delivering his judgment, the judge emphasized the importance of public protection and the duty of the court to impose appropriate sanctions. He stated that failing to do so would be a dereliction of his responsibility, especially given the heinous nature of the offences.

Addressing the court, the prosecution highlighted that some of the children depicted in the images were as young as five years old at the time the photographs were taken. The judge acknowledged the profound impact such images have on the victims, who are now left to grapple with the trauma inflicted upon them at such a tender age.

Vlasto’s defense lawyer, Ian James, who also revealed that his client had previous convictions for similar offences, argued that his client was suffering from a deep-seated psychological problem that had persisted throughout his adult life. Despite this, Mr. James pointed out that Vlasto was an intelligent man, having attended Cambridge University, and expressed hope that he would seek and accept help to address his issues.

In addition to his imprisonment, Vlasto was subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), which will remain in effect for ten years. This order aims to restrict his activities and prevent any further harm, serving as a safeguard for the community and potential future victims.