PHILIP SMITH FROM WREXHAM JAILED FOR CHILD SEX SNUFF FILMS AND HORRIFIC IMAGES

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community, Philip Smith, a resident of Wrexham, was sentenced to prison after being found guilty of possessing a vast collection of extremely disturbing images and videos depicting child abuse and bestiality. The offences came to light following a detailed investigation into his online activities, which revealed that Smith had actively searched for and collected material that included some of the most heinous forms of child exploitation.

Smith, aged 59, who lived on Morton Avenue in Johnstown, was charged with and pleaded guilty to 13 counts related to the possession of Category A, B, and C images and films. These categories refer to the severity and explicitness of the content, with Category A being the most severe. The evidence presented in court painted a grim picture of Smith’s online searches, which included terms such as “kids torture” and “paedo snuff,” indicating a specific interest in the most extreme forms of child abuse, including snuff films that depict real violence and death.

The case was heard at Mold Crown Court, where Mr. Recorder Timothy Petts presided over the proceedings. During the sentencing, the judge described some of the images as “absolutely horrific,” emphasizing the gravity of the crimes. He detailed the nature of the material, stating, “We are talking about children as young as three, five, and six being raped. One movie shows a two-year-old girl being tortured in the most unimaginable fashion. We are talking about extreme child abuse where the children are clearly distressed and suffering.”

The evidence also indicated that Smith’s online activity was not passive; he actively searched for such material, which aggravated the severity of his offences. Despite his previous good character and health issues, the judge noted that Smith’s mental health had significantly deteriorated due to the stress and shame of the proceedings. However, Mr. Petts made it clear that this decline was self-inflicted, remarking, “But I am afraid that is entirely self-inflicted.”

Prosecutor David Mainstone highlighted the disturbing nature of the case, revealing that authorities had uncovered searches for “kids torture” and “paedo snuff,” which pointed to a deliberate pursuit of the most extreme content. Some of the child abuse movies found in Smith’s possession were described as particularly severe and disturbing.

Defense solicitor Ceri Evans argued that Smith was a man of previously good character who had worked diligently throughout his life until health problems forced him into early retirement three to four years prior. She explained that he had been happily married with children and grandchildren, but the loss of his parents and sister had profoundly affected his mental health. As a result, Smith had become increasingly reclusive, living a lonely and isolated life. His online obsession grew during this period, and the offences occurred in the context of his growing dependence on the internet.

Since his arrest, Smith has taken steps to address his issues, including undergoing therapy and receiving psychiatric treatment following a suicide attempt. His legal team presented testimonials from his ex-wife and others who described him as a man of good character before his mental health declined. Smith expressed deep remorse for his actions, feeling a heavy burden of guilt. The court acknowledged his efforts to seek help and the changes he had made since his arrest, but ultimately, the severity of his crimes warranted a custodial sentence.