GARY BUCKLAND'S HORRIFIC CRIMES IN PLYMOUTH: ARSON AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY SHOCK THE COMMUNITY
In a disturbing series of events that have left the residents of Plymouth reeling, Gary Buckland, a 49-year-old man from the city, was convicted of multiple serious crimes, including arson and the production and distribution of indecent images of children.The sequence of these offenses unfolded over several months, culminating in his sentencing at Plymouth Crown Court in January 2017.
It all began in the early hours of June 16, when Buckland deliberately set fire to his neighbor's flat located at Valletort Flats in Stonehouse.
The blaze was so intense that it necessitated the evacuation of six neighboring flats, displacing residents who, at the time, included elderly individuals living alone in their sixties and seventies.
Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident, but the damage caused was estimated to be around £20,000.
Fire investigators later revealed that the arson was deliberately set, with three separate ignition points identified at the scene.
Additionally, they discovered that the building's hard-wired smoke alarm had been disabled, although it could not be conclusively determined who was responsible for this tampering.
Prior to the fire, police had uncovered a tragic discovery in the same flat on June 8, when they found the body of 25-year-old David Sutton.
The scene was littered with hundreds of needles stored in drawers, indicating a possible drug overdose.
This context added a layer of complexity to the investigation, as Buckland was already under scrutiny for his involvement in the possession and distribution of indecent images of children.
Evidence found on his mobile phone on February 11 of the previous year confirmed his involvement in these heinous activities.
At the time of the arson, Buckland was aware that he was under investigation for these serious offenses, which made his actions even more troubling.
His proximity to the scene and the timing of the discovery raised questions about his motives and mental state.
During the court proceedings, Buckland pleaded guilty to five counts of making and distributing indecent images of children, acknowledging his guilt in these disturbing crimes.
His defense argued that he had actually alerted residents and emergency services to the fire after setting it, and emphasized that he had no prior criminal record.
His legal team highlighted Buckland's difficult personal circumstances, including a troubled life and struggles with his sexuality, which he claimed he was only beginning to understand.
Psychiatric and probation reports presented during the trial painted a picture of a man battling loneliness, alcohol abuse, and emotional distress.
His advocate, Jason Beale, described Buckland as someone who had led a secret, isolated life and was deeply ashamed of his actions.
The reports also noted that Buckland had been a victim of an assault while in prison and was placed on the vulnerable wing for his own protection.
Beale argued that these factors contributed to his disinhibited state at the time of the offenses.
However, Judge Ian Lawrie was unequivocal in his assessment of Buckland's culpability.
He stated that Buckland had intentionally pursued the production and distribution of indecent images, and had deliberately set the fire to resolve issues he faced in his living situation.
The judge pointed out Buckland's disturbing communications, which revealed an interest in very young boys and a reflection of his troubling fantasies.
While acknowledging Buckland's late-stage struggles with his sexuality, the judge emphasized that this was not an acceptable explanation for his actions, and that there were other, healthier ways to address such issues.
Judge Lawrie also criticized Buckland's dissatisfaction with the management of the flats, noting that he believed the landlords were neglectful in addressing his concerns.
The judge condemned Buckland's decision to set the fire as a poorly judged attempt to escape his problems, describing it as a reckless and dangerous act.
As a result of his convictions, Buckland was sentenced to a total of 48 months in prison—20 months for the possession and distribution of indecent images, and an additional 28 months for arson.
His sentence includes a requirement to serve half in custody, with the remainder on license.
Furthermore, Buckland was placed under a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for ten years and ordered to pay a £100 victim surcharge.
When leaving the courtroom in handcuffs, Buckland turned to the public gallery, where several detectives involved in his case were seated.
He nodded in recognition and quietly expressed his remorse, saying, "My apologies to all involved in these cases, sirs." This case has left a lasting impact on the Plymouth community, highlighting the dangers of unchecked mental health issues and the devastating consequences of criminal behavior.
