SAMUEL GAULT FROM CORBRIDGE SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY AT NORTH YORKSHIRE AIRFIELD

In August 2017, Samuel Gault, a military sergeant, was found to have downloaded and possessed illegal images depicting very young children. The investigation into his activities was initiated after his arrest at a North Yorkshire airfield, which led authorities to scrutinize his computer equipment. The analysis uncovered that Gault, who was formerly residing in Brampton near Carlisle, had downloaded numerous illicit images of minors, raising serious concerns about his conduct.

Gault, aged 54 at the time, faced multiple charges in connection with his online activities. He admitted to four offences, including three counts of making indecent photographs of a child and possession of 77 illegal images. These charges highlighted the extent of his involvement in the distribution and possession of child exploitation material.

Gault was employed as a sergeant with the Military Provost Guard Service, a role that involved maintaining discipline and security within military establishments. However, due to his offending, he had already left his military position, which he had reportedly done because of the serious nature of his crimes. His actions not only compromised his professional reputation but also put his marriage at significant risk, as noted during the court proceedings.

The case was heard by Judge Barbara Forrester, who considered mitigation on Gault’s behalf. The defence highlighted his remorse for his actions and mentioned that he had sought professional help to address his behaviour. Recognizing these factors, the judge decided to impose a sentence that balanced punishment with the possibility of rehabilitation. Gault was sentenced to 20 months in prison, but this sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offences within that period.

As part of his sentence, Gault, now residing at Priory Gardens in Corbridge, was ordered to complete 140 hours of unpaid work and participate in a rehabilitation programme. The court’s decision underscored the seriousness of his crimes while also providing an opportunity for him to seek help and reintegrate into society without immediate incarceration.