Client avoids prison for charges of indecent images

Case study summary

Our client, a working man of good character, pleaded guilty to indecent and prohibited image charges. We recognised the importance of putting his character forward before the court and prepared extensive mitigation on his behalf to ensure that he avoided a prison sentence.

Case study

Our client came to us during the investigation stage of his case. He had been arrested in the early hours of the morning and had devices seized from his address. As a stranger to criminal proceedings, he initially instructed the duty solicitor to advise him during his interview, later realising that he required specialist assistance and instructing our firm to represent him.

It was clear from the outset that our client accepted the allegations that had been made against him and it was important that he felt supported at this early stage. We took time to speak to him about how he found himself in this position and ensured that we were fully prepared for any charges that were to follow.

Our client was eventually charged with 'making' indecent images of children and possessing prohibited images of children, totaling over 6,500 images and over 700 videos.

We worked to ensure our client's good character was made evident by obtaining references from his friends and family, highlighting his good nature and lack of previous convictions. We also instructed an expert psychiatrist to produce a report showing the effect of his Autism on the offending behaviour. In addition to this, we instructed a specialist barrister to present his mitigation and ensure that it was put before the judge properly.

Because of these efforts, combined with the remorse that our client showed and the credit he received for accepting the offences, he was given a suspended sentence. This will allow our client to continue to work on changing his behaviour, with the support of his loving family, without the additional burden of an immediate prison sentence.