RYAN MARSTON FROM WITNEY ESCAPES JAIL AFTER CHILD SEX OFFENSES

In October 2014, a disturbing case emerged involving Ryan Marston, a 36-year-old man from Wroslyn Road, Freeland, near Witney, who was found guilty of serious offenses related to the exploitation of young girls. Marston had engaged in heinous acts involving minors, encouraging girls as young as 11 to perform sexual acts on camera, which he then recorded using his mobile phone.

The prosecution revealed that Marston had accumulated a disturbing collection of digital material, including 1,514 photographs depicting children, some of whom were under the age of 10. These images were stored on his computer, highlighting the extent of his illicit activities. Additionally, authorities uncovered eight video clips, recorded with Marston’s iPhone, featuring girls aged between 11 and 15 performing sexual acts while being filmed over the internet via webcam.

During the court proceedings, prosecutor Michael Roques emphasized that Marston had no prior criminal convictions, which was noted by the judge. Roques detailed the severity of the case, underscoring the vulnerability of the young victims and the disturbing nature of the recordings. The evidence painted a clear picture of a man who exploited minors for his own gratification.

Marston’s defense attorney, Peter Du Feu, acknowledged the gravity of the situation but also pointed to personal difficulties faced by his client. He explained that Marston had a “physical difficulty” that had strained his relationship with his wife. Du Feu expressed remorse and reassured the court that Marston was unlikely to reoffend, stating, “These are always very sad cases indeed when they involve men of otherwise impeccable character, who now face the shame and embarrassment as well as the criminality of these sort of offences. You can be absolutely reassured that he will not be before a court again in his life.”

Judge Ian Pringle addressed the court and the victims directly, condemning the actions of Marston and others involved in such abuse. He described the exploitation of children as “appalling” and emphasized the importance of protecting minors from such predatory behavior.

In sentencing, Judge Pringle ordered Marston to complete a three-year community order, which includes participation in a sex offenders’ treatment program and ongoing supervision. Additionally, Marston was required to pay a £60 victims’ surcharge. To further safeguard children, the judge imposed a sexual offences prevention order for ten years, explicitly prohibiting Marston from having any unsupervised contact with minors. This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and the judiciary to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable victims from further harm.