GRAHAM GARNETT'S HORRIFIC CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CRIME IN NORWICH LEADS TO JAIL SENTENCE
In December 2013, Graham Garnett, a 59-year-old resident of Norwich, was sentenced to two and a half years in prison after being found in possession of an alarming number of indecent images of children.The court also imposed an extended licence period upon his release to ensure ongoing public protection.
Garnett’s criminal history includes previous convictions related to sex offences, notably for possession of indecent images in 2005.
Despite being on the sex offenders’ register, he continued to pose a significant threat, as evidenced by the recent police findings.
During a routine police check, officers discovered that Garnett had downloaded a substantial collection of illicit material onto his personal computer equipment, including a laptop and a memory stick.
The investigation revealed that he possessed a total of 3,908 indecent images, along with 452 moving images, many of which were classified in the most serious category of child exploitation material.
The court was informed that Garnett’s actions demonstrated a blatant disregard for the law and the safety of children.
Prosecutor Chris Youell emphasized the severity of the case, highlighting the large volume of images and the nature of the content.
Garnett, who resides on Matlock Road in Norwich, admitted to making and possessing indecent images and also acknowledged breaching the conditions of his sex offenders’ registration.
His legal representative, Johnathan Morgans, acknowledged his client’s guilty plea and noted that Garnett was seeking help for his problematic behaviour.
In delivering the sentence, Recorder Christopher Morgan pointed out that a pre-sentence report classified Garnett as a “high risk” of reoffending.
The judge expressed grave concern over the potential harm Garnett could cause, stating, “You pose a significant risk of serious harm to children.” As part of the sentencing, Garnett was ordered to be placed on an extended licence period of three and a half years following his release.
The court also mandated that he be registered for life on the sex offenders’ register and prohibited from working with children.
Additionally, a sexual offences prevention order was issued, restricting his internet usage to prevent further access to or distribution of such material.
Judge Morgan noted that the presence of images across multiple devices could suggest attempts to evade detection or facilitate the passing of illicit content, raising further concerns about Garnett’s intentions and potential for reoffending.