INDECENT IMAGES OFFENCE - Community Order Imposed

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Overview

Our client, a 39-year-old man with no previous convictions, was arrested following a police investigation into the possession and making of indecent images of children. Electronic devices seized from his home were subjected to forensic examination, which uncovered thousands of images across all three categories (A–C), as well as a number of prohibited images. The offending was alleged to have taken place over a five-year period.

Legal Representation

The client was initially represented by a duty solicitor but chose to instruct Kelly Blake due to the serious nature of the allegations. Upon receipt of the initial details of the prosecution case (IDPC), Ms. Blake reviewed the forensic evidence and advised the client to enter early guilty pleas to secure full credit at sentence. A pre-sentence report (PSR) was requested and mitigation materials were gathered.

Proactive Steps

In preparation for sentencing, Ms. Blake took detailed instructions and prepared a comprehensive proof of mitigation and sentencing note. The client had also engaged in therapeutic support, including work with a StopSo therapist and Safer Lives. References and letters of support were obtained from family members and submitted to the court. 

Outcome

The matter was heard at the Crown Court The prosecution outlined the case, including the volume of images recovered: 1,478 Category A, 2,450 Category B, 9,514 Category C, and 101 prohibited images. However, the Judge accepted that the client made full and frank admissions at the earliest stage and that there was no evidence of distribution or online moderation.

Despite the seriousness and scale of the offending, the court was persuaded that the client’s substantial steps towards rehabilitation—undertaken independently before sentencing—justified a community-based disposal. As a result, the client avoided immediate custody.

Sentence Imposed

• 24-month Community Order (concurrent on all charges)
   
• Up to 45 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement (RAR) days
   
• 150 hours of unpaid work
   
• £340 Prosecution Costs
   
• Victim Surcharge
   
• 5-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (terms negotiated and agreed)
   
• 5-year Notification Requirements
   
• Prohibited from working with children
   
• Devices forfeited and destroyed
   

Key Legal Achievement

One of the key outcomes of the sentencing was the successful negotiation of the SHPO. Ms. Blake ensured that the order was proportionate and specifically excluded the client’s work devices from inspection by the police. This was crucial in allowing the client to continue his employment and limit the intrusion into his professional life, while still satisfying public protection concerns.

This case demonstrates the importance of proactive engagement with rehabilitation, strong legal advocacy, and strategic preparation in achieving the best possible outcome for clients facing serious allegations.