ROBERT WESTGARTH FROM PRIESTWOOD SENTENCED FOR CHILD INDECENT IMAGES IN BRACKNELL

In June 2019, a disturbing case emerged involving Robert Westgarth, a resident of Priestwood, who was found to possess and produce indecent images of children, revealing a troubling pattern of behavior that shocked the local community.

Westgarth, aged 38 at the time, became a figure of local headlines several years prior when he offered to chauffeur a group of young girls to their prom in a pink stretch limousine. This gesture was initially perceived as a kind act, especially after he received a cancellation for his usual chauffeur services. However, beneath this seemingly generous gesture lay a darker reality that was uncovered during police investigations.

On June 26, 2019, authorities executed a search at Westgarth’s residence in Priestwood, where they discovered a collection of indecent images of children ranging in age from six to 16 years old. These images included both still photographs and videos, some of which were classified as the most serious categories of child exploitation material. The police also found a video that Westgarth had deliberately recorded on his mobile phone, indicating premeditation and intent.

During the subsequent court proceedings at Reading Crown Court, the prosecution, led by Kirsty Allman, outlined the gravity of the offenses. She explained that Westgarth was responsible for the production and possession of a total of 35 indecent images, which depicted children in various states of exploitation. The images were categorized into different levels of severity, with some being classified as Category A, the most serious.

Judge Angela Morris presided over the case and addressed Westgarth directly, emphasizing the findings of the police search. She noted that the police had found evidence of deliberate searches for indecent images on his storage devices, and that the video found on his phone was a result of his own actions. The judge pointed out that Westgarth’s behavior was both deliberate and premeditated, despite his claims of innocence.

In her remarks, Judge Morris acknowledged Westgarth’s admission of having an addiction and an unhealthy interest in young children, which he disclosed in the pre-sentence report and to the jury. However, she made it clear that such an addiction could not serve as a defense for his actions. The judge expressed concern that Westgarth remained in denial about the severity of his offenses and lacked insight into the impact of his behavior.

As part of his sentence, Westgarth was handed a 21-month jail term, which was suspended for two years. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 25 rehabilitation courses aimed at addressing his behavior. To protect the public, he was also subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that will remain in effect for ten years. Furthermore, he was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £140 and prosecution costs of £500.

Judge Morris concluded her sentencing by urging Westgarth to demonstrate to his family that he could be the man they once believed he was, and the man he aspires to become. Her words served as a reminder of the importance of accountability and the potential for rehabilitation, even in cases involving serious offenses against children.