GERALD GRAVES SENTENCED FOR DOWNLOADING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY
A man from Somerset has received a prison sentence after admitting to downloading indecent images of children, explaining that viewing such content gives him a "tingly feeling." Gerald Graves, aged 71 and from Langport, appeared before Taunton Crown Court on Friday, July 24.The court was informed that Avon and Somerset Police had received information indicating that indecent images were being shared from Graves’ residence.
Officers visited his home on October 23, 2024, where they arrested him.
During the arrest, his wife asked, "have you done it again?" Prosecutor Anton Doyle stated that police seized two electronic devices and discovered Graves had 18 Category A images, including two videos; 50 Category B images with one video; 1,357 images in total, 71 of which were movies; 156 extreme pornographic images; and 14 images prohibited by law.
In police interviews, Graves admitted to downloading and viewing the material.
Mr Doyle explained that Graves acknowledged having a "predisposition" toward sexual interest in children, experiencing a "tingly feeling" from viewing the images, and deriving sexual gratification from them.
Graves later attempted to retract his statement about the "tingly" feeling, expressing regret.
The court was told that Graves does not have an interest in real children but recognizes that his actions have harmed minors and that he seeks help.
It was also mentioned that Graves claimed he did not open all the images and was unaware that the Category A images were part of the files he downloaded.
Mr Doyle added that Graves described his obsession with downloading pornography as "like a drug" that "makes him feel good." It was further revealed that Graves tried to dispose of the images.
Defense lawyer Mr Joseph Wright stated that in his 71 years, Graves has only one prior conviction from over twenty years ago, although it involved multiple child pornography offenses.
He emphasized that the Category A images were "not his focus" and that Graves understands what he has been involved in.
Mr Wright noted that Graves has had underlying issues but had managed to stay clear of such behavior for years until recently.
He explained that Graves had been experiencing a "dark time" with destabilizing factors, describing the situation as "stark." Since the offending, Graves has taken steps to address his behavior, including abstaining from viewing adult material or pornography and refraining from masturbation.
He has also sought therapy as his finances allowed and has spoken with his GP.
According to Mr Wright, these efforts have been effective, as Graves has not reoffended in the past two years, demonstrating his ability to comply with restrictions.
The case was overseen by Mr Recorder S Levene, who remarked: "Twenty-odd years ago you were convicted of numerous child pornography offenses, and now you have done it again.
Your wife’s comment says all we need to know.
What often fails to reach offenders like you is that you are not just dealing in images but also contributing to childhood trauma and making life unbearable for children.
You are part of the problem, not the solution." Graves was sentenced to eight months in prison, suspended for two years.
He will be on the sex offenders register for ten years, subject to a 10-year sexual harm prevention order, and required to complete 35 days of rehabilitation activities.
He was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £187, and the seized devices were to be forfeited.
Mr Levene concluded by saying, "I have reviewed the psychiatric report, which shows you recognize you have a problem and are working to address it.
I hope these efforts will be successful."
