ROBERT GILLARD FROM HORNEDEAN ESCAPES PRISON AFTER CHILD ABUSE IMAGE SCANDAL IN PORTSMOUTH

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Horndean and the wider Portsmouth area, Robert Gillard, a 62-year-old former university lecturer, was exposed for possessing an extensive collection of child abuse images. The investigation revealed that Gillard had been involved in this heinous activity for over a decade, beginning in 2006 and continuing until March of the previous year.

Gillard, who previously taught at the University of Portsmouth and also held a position at the University of Chichester, was found to have downloaded and stored thousands of vile images depicting the sexual torment of young children. His actions came to light after police conducted a raid on his residence, located on Mapletree Avenue in Horndean, following a lengthy investigation.

During the court proceedings at Portsmouth Crown Court, Gillard appeared visibly surprised when the extent of his online activities was revealed. He admitted to having a serious 'addiction' to viewing and collecting these disturbing images, which included photographs of children as young as six to eight years old being subjected to sexual abuse. The police investigation uncovered that Gillard's collection comprised a staggering total of 7,101 images, categorized into different levels of severity.

Specifically, authorities found 1,394 Category A images, which are considered the most serious, along with 912 Category B and 4,500 Category C images. In addition, there were 242 moving images classified as Category A, 24 as Category B, and 29 as Category C. The sheer volume and disturbing nature of these images underscored the gravity of the case.

Prosecutor Matthew Lawson detailed the police response, stating that officers attended Gillard's home following an investigation. During questioning, Gillard made admissions about possessing the images, initially claiming they were stored on a single device. However, subsequent examinations revealed that the images were spread across multiple devices, indicating a deliberate and extensive collection.

Gillard expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging his responsibility for the material found. Despite the severity of the evidence, the court was faced with the decision of whether to impose a custodial sentence. Ultimately, Recorder Sarah Vaughan-Jones decided against sending Gillard to prison. Instead, she sentenced him to 16 months in jail, suspended for two years, meaning he will not serve time unless he commits another offence within that period.

Furthermore, Gillard was ordered to participate in 35 days of rehabilitation programs and to cooperate with a supervision order for the next two years. He was also required to pay costs amounting to £340 and was issued a sexual harm prevention order that will remain in effect for ten years, aimed at preventing any future offending behavior.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat online child exploitation and the importance of vigilance within communities like Horndean and Portsmouth to protect vulnerable children from such heinous crimes.