IAN VALLIER FROM DOWNLEY LIVING NEAR PRIMARY SCHOOL AND PLAYGROUND AFTER ESCAPING PRISON SENTENCE

In May 2003, a disturbing case emerged involving Ian Vallier, a convicted paedophile residing in the Downley area, who was found living dangerously close to a local primary school and a children's playground. Vallier, whose address is listed as Cumbrian Way in Downley, has been under scrutiny since his arrest in October of the previous year. Despite his criminal history, he managed to avoid a custodial sentence, raising serious concerns among local residents and authorities alike.

Vallier's criminal activities involved the illegal downloading of child pornography from the internet. Investigations revealed that he had accumulated a staggering 2,500 indecent images of children on his computer. His actions spanned over a period of three years, during which he visited various internet sites to access and download such material. The extent of his online activity was detailed during his court proceedings, highlighting the severity of his offenses.

Following his arrest, Vallier was brought before Aylesbury Crown Court, where he faced multiple charges. Despite the gravity of his crimes, the court decided against imposing a prison sentence. Instead, Judge Roger Connor sentenced the 33-year-old to a three-year community rehabilitation order. This order mandated Vallier to participate in a sex offender treatment programme, aimed at addressing his behavior and preventing future offenses. Additionally, he was placed on the sex offenders register for a period of five years, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

Disraeli School, located in The Pastures near Vallier's residence, became a point of concern for the community and school officials. Nigel Cook, the headteacher of Disraeli School, stated that he was unaware of Vallier's proximity to the school, although he acknowledged being informed about the case. Cook emphasized that the school would work closely with social services and police to ensure the safety of children, conducting assessments to confirm that there was no immediate risk.

Local residents on Cumbrian Way expressed their alarm and unease upon learning that Vallier was living so close to a place where children frequently play and learn. One anonymous woman commented, “This is a shock. I did not know he was here and I think people will be concerned. They will want to know.” The community's concern underscores the ongoing anxiety about the safety of children in the neighborhood.

Vallier's legal journey included pleading guilty to 17 charges at High Wycombe Magistrates Court, which involved making indecent pseudo-photographs of children related to his internet activities. His case was subsequently transferred to Aylesbury Crown Court for sentencing. Prosecutor Jonathan Wright detailed that Vallier had admitted to visiting various internet sites and downloading images of children over a three-year period, with the last download occurring just a week before his arrest.

During the sentencing hearing, Vallier's defense, represented by Jake Harris, argued that he had shown remorse for his actions and had been alienated from his family due to his crimes. Harris emphasized that Vallier recognized he had a problem and was actively seeking help to address his behavior. Despite the court's decision to impose a community order rather than imprisonment, the case remains a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in managing offenders of this nature and the importance of community vigilance.