DEREK LISTER OF PEMBROKESHIRE SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY IN SWANSEA
A 72-year-old man from Marloes, Pembrokeshire, who was once a volunteer sailing instructor for young children, has admitted to possessing and creating indecent images of minors.Derek Lister appeared before Swansea Crown Court on Thursday, September 30, where he pleaded guilty to multiple charges involving the creation and possession of explicit images of children.
Specifically, Lister admitted to producing three indecent images classified as Category A, which denotes the most severe level of explicit material involving minors.
Additionally, he acknowledged possessing 14 images categorized as Category B and a further 152 images classified as Category C.
These categories reflect the increasing levels of severity and explicitness of the images involved.
Initially, Lister had indicated that he intended to plead not guilty to these charges.
However, as the court proceedings progressed and the evidence against him was presented, he changed his plea to guilty.
This decision was likely influenced by the strength of the evidence, which made a not guilty plea untenable.
In sentencing, the court handed down a four-month jail term, which was suspended for two years.
This means that Lister will not serve time immediately, provided he complies with certain conditions.
He was also ordered to complete 150 hours of community service.
The suspended sentence carries a significant warning: if Lister commits any further offences within the next two years, the suspension will be revoked, and he will be required to serve the original jail sentence.
It is understood that Derek Lister has since relocated from Pembrokeshire, possibly to distance himself from his previous residence and associations.
The sentencing process had been delayed from an earlier date due to technical issues with the court's video link system, which hindered the proceedings.
His case highlights ongoing concerns about the exploitation and abuse of children, and the importance of rigorous legal action to address such crimes.
The court's decision reflects the seriousness with which these offences are treated, even when the offender is a former teacher and community volunteer.
