KIERON SMITH FROM TRURO SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN DEVON AND CORNWALL

A man identified as Kieron Smith, residing in Truro, has been convicted and sentenced for serious offences involving a minor, highlighting the ongoing concerns about child exploitation and online abuse. The case came to light after police conducted an unannounced visit to Smith's address on September 2, during which he openly admitted to struggling with disturbing sexual urges towards children.

Smith, aged 23, had previously been registered as a sex offender following a court caution related to the possession of indecent images of children. His latest offences involved inappropriate online communications with a 15-year-old girl, which included sending her money in exchange for explicit images. Although there is no evidence that the girl ever sent such images, the police investigation revealed troubling details about Smith's online activity.

During the police visit, Smith cooperated fully, inviting officers into his home and confessing that he had been accessing videos online that contained sexual content involving minors. He also disclosed that he had been in contact with the teenage girl, engaging in conversations that included sexualised messages. Among these messages, Smith explicitly expressed a desire for her to be his 'f*ck toy,' a phrase that underscored the severity of his misconduct.

Following his admission, Smith was arrested and charged with one count of engaging in sexual communication with a child for the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification. He pleaded guilty to the charge at the earliest opportunity, acknowledging his guilt.

At a sentencing hearing held at Truro Crown Court on Thursday, October 17, the court heard from a member of the probation team who emphasized Smith's willingness to accept responsibility. The probation officer stated that Smith had disclosed to police that he was struggling with his sexual thoughts and had actively sought out and paid for explicit images from a minor. The officer added that Smith expressed a desire to seek help and support for his issues.

Judge Elisabeth Bussey-Jones addressed the court, recognizing the seriousness of Smith's offences involving the solicitation and possession of child sexual material. She noted, however, that Smith's frank admission and his mental health difficulties, including learning disabilities and social isolation, were factors to consider. The judge acknowledged that Smith had shown remorse and was seeking assistance.

As part of his sentence, Smith was given a three-year community order. This includes 40 sessions of the 'New Me Strengths' programme, a 10-day rehabilitation activity requirement, and 12 days of mental health support. Additionally, he will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order for five years and will remain on the sex offenders register for the same period. Smith was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £114.

This case underscores the importance of vigilance and intervention in protecting minors from online predators and highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and judicial authorities to address such grave offences.