PAUL BRENTNALL AVOIDS JAIL IN WILTSHIRE CASE

In November 2008, Paul Brentnall from Mossbank narrowly avoided imprisonment after being convicted of possessing and producing child indecent images. The case emerged after Brentnall's estranged wife discovered the illegal images on his computer following his move out of their home in Wiltshire.

Lynne Henderson, prosecuting, explained to Swindon Crown Court that in late 2006, Brentnall left his wife while they were residing on Moormead Road, Wroughton. During the separation, he left behind a personal computer and a laptop, which his wife then asked a family friend to examine due to suspicions raised by the content found.

The family friend discovered inappropriate images and quickly reported this to the police. Investigations revealed that the computers contained a total of 372 indecent images of children, including 24 classified in the two most severe categories.

In November of the following year, Wiltshire police traveled to Shetland with the sheriff’s permission to arrest Brentnall at his new residence. During questioning, Brentnall assured officers that there were no further similar images on his new computer. However, subsequent searches uncovered 32 additional indecent images, including two in the most severe categories. Brentnall claimed he was unaware of their presence and said he used software to delete such content.

Brentnall pleaded guilty to one count of possessing and three counts of producing indecent images of children. The court noted that while he admitted to additional charges related to similar images, these offenses occurred in Scotland and thus fell under Scottish jurisdiction.

Representing Brentnall, his lawyer Michael Cullum stated that his client had admitted guilt at the earliest opportunity. He explained that much of the material had been received from online contacts.

Mr. Cullum also highlighted Brentnall’s health issues, mentioning he suffers from sleep apnoea and sleeps with a mask. The lawyer emphasized Brentnall’s willingness to seek help and noted that he is supported by a new partner.

Judge William Hart sentenced Brentnall to a community order, requiring him to be under supervision for 18 months, complete 120 hours of unpaid work, and pay £250 in court costs. Additionally, Brentnall is mandated to register as a sex offender for five years.