SAMUEL SMITH FROM CLENCHWARTON SENTENCED FOR CHILD INDECENCY IMAGES IN NORWICH

In a case that has raised serious concerns about online safety and child protection, Samuel Smith, a 30-year-old resident of Clenchwarton near King’s Lynn, was found to possess and download indecent images of children, including highly explicit and prohibited content. The incident came to light after Smith voluntarily handed over his personal computer to Norfolk police, an act that ultimately led to the discovery of disturbing material stored on his devices.

According to court proceedings at Norwich Crown Court, Smith had downloaded approximately 300 images, with 141 classified as the most severe category of indecency. In addition to these, authorities uncovered 157 extreme pornographic images and 66 images that were legally prohibited due to their content involving minors. The case was considered unusual because Smith’s cooperation with law enforcement was noted; he willingly submitted his laptop on April 9 of the previous year, which initially led to the investigation.

Further searches conducted in September of the same year revealed additional illicit material. Authorities found images not only on his laptop but also on a second device—a phone—indicating a pattern of possession across multiple electronic devices. Prosecutor John Morgans emphasized that Smith was cooperative throughout the investigation, which facilitated the discovery of the illegal content.

Smith, who resides on Robin Kerkham Way in Clenchwarton, admitted to downloading indecent images of children and possessing extreme and prohibited images during the court hearing. It was also revealed that he had a prior conviction related to similar offenses dating back to 2011, highlighting a troubling pattern of behavior.

In sentencing, Judge Katharine Moore imposed a 10-month jail term, but this was suspended for 21 months. The judge explained that this approach was intended to allow Smith to receive necessary help and rehabilitation, with the ultimate goal of protecting the public from potential re-offending. Additionally, Smith was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of 10 years and was subjected to a sexual harm prevention order. As part of the restrictions, he was also banned from working with children, reflecting the serious nature of his offenses and the ongoing risk they pose to vulnerable individuals.