SIMON MCLAREN FROM BRACKNELL AND WARFIELD SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN READING

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Bracknell and Warfield, Simon McLaren, a 49-year-old former professional polo player, has been convicted and sentenced for a series of heinous sexual offences involving minors. The proceedings took place at Reading Crown Court, where the gravity of his crimes was laid bare through detailed evidence and victim testimonies.

McLaren, who resides on Bracknell Road in Warfield, was first brought into police custody on May 12, 2014, after authorities uncovered indecent images on his computer. An extensive investigation revealed that he had committed multiple sexual assaults against three young girls, all under the age of 13, in Bracknell between April 21 and August 20, 2014. These assaults were not only physically abusive but also documented through video recordings, which McLaren himself filmed, adding a deeply disturbing layer to the case.

Further examination of his electronic devices uncovered a collection of voyeurism videos, many of which depicted individuals unaware they were being secretly filmed. The investigation also revealed that McLaren possessed and made indecent images of children, with the offences spanning from January 2010 to August 2014. The police executed a warrant at his home on February 23, 2015, seizing a laptop that contained additional evidence of sexual assaults, voyeurism, and indecent images. Subsequent forensic analysis confirmed the existence of more filmed assaults and numerous indecent photographs.

Throughout the legal process, McLaren initially denied any wrongdoing during four police interviews. However, on May 8, 2015, he pleaded guilty to nine counts, including three sexual assaults on children under 13, one count of voyeurism involving multiple victims, and five counts of making or possessing indecent images of children. His guilty plea was accepted by the prosecution after discussions with the victims, who showed remarkable bravery in coming forward despite the trauma they endured.

On June 12, 2015, McLaren was sentenced at Reading Crown Court. The judge ordered a total of five years in prison, with the sentences for the sexual assaults to be served consecutively, amounting to 16 months each. An additional 12 months was added for the charge of making indecent images (filming), to be served concurrently. The court also imposed sentences of eight months for the possession of indecent images captured via hidden cameras, and four months for voyeurism, which involved 130 videos, both to be served consecutively. A further four months' imprisonment was given for possessing indecent images, to be served concurrently.

In addition to his prison term, McLaren was placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register indefinitely and was subject to an eight-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order. These measures aim to monitor and restrict his activities to prevent further harm. The investigation and subsequent conviction were praised by Detective Sergeant Jon Groenen, who highlighted the bravery of the victims and their families. He expressed hope that the case would encourage other victims to come forward and seek justice.

Thames Valley Police and the Crown Prosecution Service emphasized the importance of victim support and the need for victims of such crimes to have confidence in the justice system. Adrian Foster, Chief Crown Prosecutor for Thames and Chiltern CPS, underscored the seriousness of the offences, especially given the vulnerability of the young victims. He also commended the victims and their families for their resilience and cooperation throughout the lengthy investigation.

McLaren-Tosh’s case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of child sexual abuse and the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community awareness. The court’s decision reflects a firm stance against such crimes, aiming to protect children and hold offenders accountable for their actions.