ALLAN MARTIN FROM TUNBRIDGE WELLS INDICTED FOR REPEATED OFFENSES AND INDEFINITE HOSPITAL ORDER IN MAIDSTONE

In a series of disturbing incidents that have shocked the community of Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas, Allan Martin has been at the center of multiple criminal proceedings related to sexual offenses involving minors. The latest development involves his indefinite detention under a hospital order following a breach of a sexual offences prevention order, which was issued after he was convicted of molesting a young boy in a church toilet.

Back in July 2013, Martin, who previously resided on Woolley Road in Tunbridge Wells, was subjected to a court hearing at Maidstone Crown Court. The court was informed that Martin had violated the terms of his existing sexual offences prevention order by downloading indecent images of children. This breach prompted the court to consider the most appropriate and protective response, leading to the imposition of an indefinite hospital order under the Mental Health Act. The decision was supported by two psychiatrists who testified that Martin, a 24-year-old man with Asperger’s syndrome and autism, posed a significant danger to minors and was at a very high risk of re-offending.

During the hearing, Judge Charles Macdonald emphasized the importance of treatment over incarceration, stating to Martin, “You are going to hospital. You are going to be treated. It will be better than being in prison. Do not fear it. Good luck.” This marked a significant shift from previous sentences, as Martin had previously been detained for public protection in February 2011, with a minimum term of two years, after being convicted of sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, and breaching his sexual offences prevention order. However, that sentence was later overturned on appeal, and he was resentenced to a determinate term of two and a half years, with the possibility of early release at the halfway point.

Martin’s criminal history is extensive and troubling. He was convicted of molesting an 11-year-old boy in a church toilet in Maidstone in September of an unspecified year, which led to his initial indefinite detention. The court heard that Martin had visited a talent contest at the church when he committed the offense. The church officials discovered the incident after another boy, aged just 8, reported that Martin had asked to touch him. Judge Andrew Patience described Martin’s fantasies as “evil” and highlighted his entrenched attraction to children.

Further complicating his case, Martin had a history of offenses dating back to 2005, including an incident where he grabbed a boy and told him to expose his underwear or genitals. At age 16, he was convicted of attempted indecent assault. His criminal record also includes a conviction from three years prior for downloading over 1,000 pornographic images of children, which led to a community order and participation in a sex offender treatment program. Neighbors near his residence on Woolley Road expressed shock and concern upon learning of his latest offenses, with one mother of two, Marta Gugala, describing her fear for her children’s safety.

In the most recent case, Martin was found with four indecent images on a Nintendo games console, all classified at the lowest level of severity. The court noted that Martin had a particular interest in male underwear and a preoccupation with offending in public toilets. He also fantasized about killing young victims, which the judge described as deeply troubling.

Throughout the proceedings, the court acknowledged Martin’s mental health issues, including his autism and Asperger’s syndrome, which his defense argued contributed to his inability to control his behavior. His lawyer, Laura Bumpus, emphasized his remorse and difficulties stemming from his learning disabilities. Nonetheless, the court determined that his dangerousness and propensity to re-offend warranted continued detention and supervision.

In a broader context, Martin’s criminal activities have prompted community concern and calls for vigilance. His history of offenses, combined with his residence near a primary school, has heightened fears among local residents. The police expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, thanking the victims and their families for their courage and support, which played a crucial role in securing the convictions. Martin’s name will remain on the sex offenders’ register for life, and he will continue to be monitored closely to prevent further harm.

Overall, the case of Allan Martin underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the justice system in managing offenders with complex mental health needs and ensuring community safety. His case remains a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous supervision and intervention for individuals with a history of sexual offenses against children.