MARTIN EMBLING FROM MARLBOROUGH SENTENCED FOR GROOMING TEEN AND SENDING INDECENT PHOTOS

In September 2010, a disturbing case involving a father of five, Martin Embling, came to light in Salisbury Magistrates Court. Embling, aged 46 and residing on White Horse Road in Marlborough, faced serious charges related to grooming a 15-year-old girl and coercing her into sending him explicit photographs of herself.

The court proceedings revealed that Embling had previously pleaded guilty to multiple charges, leading to his sentencing. He was handed a three-year community order, which notably included a strict prohibition on any form of contact with the victim during this period. This measure was intended to prevent further harm and to facilitate his rehabilitation.

Evidence presented during the case painted a troubling picture of Embling’s misconduct. Prosecutor Michelle Hewitt detailed that Embling had amassed approximately 3,000 text messages on his mobile phone, many of which contained images of the girl either in her underclothes or exposing her breasts. Of these messages, around 2,500 were classified as sexually explicit, underscoring the severity of his actions.

Embling admitted to five sample charges involving the sending of grossly offensive, indecent, or obscene messages. Additionally, he confessed to possessing a photograph that was a pseudo-image of a person under the age of 18, further implicating him in the case. The court ordered the confiscation and forfeiture of all related digital evidence, including his mobile phone, computer, and photographs found in his car.

The court was informed that the victim, a young girl, believed she was communicating with a 20-year-old man she was interested in romantically. She took the photographs of herself under the impression that they would be sent to this supposed boyfriend, with Embling acting as an intermediary. However, the reality was far more sinister. It was revealed that Embling used the images for his own gratification, rather than forwarding them as she believed.

The case took a further turn when a family member discovered the images on Embling’s phone, prompting them to contact the police. A subsequent search of his home uncovered additional images stored on his phone, his computer, and even in his car, illustrating the extent of his misconduct.

During police interviews, Embling continued to deceive, claiming he was acting on behalf of the girl’s supposed 20-year-old boyfriend. Prosecutor Hewitt explained that this was false, as the actual boyfriend denied any relationship with the girl. The court was told that Embling had groomed the girl over an extended period, manipulating her into believing she was in a relationship and that he was acting as a go-between.

The prosecutor emphasized that the most aggravating aspect of the case was the prolonged period over which Embling maintained this deception and grooming process.

Defense lawyer Gordon Hotson acknowledged Embling’s troubled family background and expressed hope for his rehabilitation. Hotson stated, “He appreciates he will have to work very hard to rehabilitate himself in society and to make amends to those near him who he has hurt.” The court’s decision reflects the seriousness of the offenses and the need for ongoing monitoring and intervention to prevent future harm.