ROGER MARTIN PETERBOROUGH PAEDOPHILE PRESCRIBED VIAGRA DESPITE DECADES OF CHILD ABUSE

In a disturbing case that has raised serious concerns about the safety of vulnerable children and the oversight of convicted offenders, Roger Martin, a 71-year-old man from Peterborough, has been receiving prescriptions for Viagra through the NHS, despite his long history of sexual offenses involving minors.

Martin’s ability to obtain the medication is straightforward; he simply needs to visit his general practitioner (GP) in Peterborough to be prescribed the drug, which is typically used to treat erectile dysfunction and certain illnesses like diabetes. Experts have warned that the prescription of Viagra to Martin could potentially enable him to continue preying on children, regardless of his age or past convictions. The authorities overseeing his case, including probation officers, have expressed their inability to intervene in the prescription process, as they lack the authority to prevent him from obtaining the medication.

What complicates the situation further is that Martin is not required to disclose his criminal history to his GP. Even if he were to do so, medical professionals are bound by confidentiality and cannot consider his past offenses when prescribing medication. The Department of Health guidelines justify prescribing Viagra to Martin due to his health conditions, including diabetes, which he suffers from. This medical necessity, however, has sparked outrage among child safety advocates and members of Parliament, who argue that such loopholes pose a significant risk to public safety.

Martin’s criminal record dates back to 1978, when he was convicted of engaging in unlawful sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl who was working as a babysitter. Over the years, he has continued to offend, with his most recent assault occurring in December 2008, when he inappropriately touched an 11-year-old girl who was visiting his sheltered accommodation in Peterborough to do some cleaning for pocket money. This incident led to his conviction and subsequent sentencing at Peterborough Crown Court.

During the sentencing, Judge Nicholas Coleman ordered Martin to participate in a three-year sex offenders’ treatment program and imposed an indefinite ban on any contact with children. Despite these measures, Martin’s use of Viagra has become a focal point of concern. Last night, he claimed that his use of the medication was “a personal thing really,” asserting that he lives alone, has no female companionship, and does not believe he is doing anything wrong by taking it.

However, the reaction from the public and officials has been one of horror and outrage. Child safety campaigners and MPs have called for urgent legislative changes to close the loopholes that allow convicted offenders like Martin to access such medications without proper oversight. The case underscores the ongoing challenges in balancing medical treatment with public safety, especially when it involves individuals with a documented history of abusing children.