SIMON GUSTAR FROM NEWPORT SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IMAGES IN ISLE OF WIGHT

A man from Newport, Simon Gustar, has been sentenced after being found guilty of possessing and downloading indecent images of children. The case was heard at the Isle of Wight Crown Court, where Gustar, aged 66, appeared before the judge on Tuesday, July 23, to face the consequences of his actions.

Gustar was charged with three counts of making indecent photographs of children, with the offenses spanning from April 24, 2022, to February 2 of the following year. These charges came after he appeared before magistrates on June 18, where the initial evidence was presented. The images in question included a disturbing collection of indecent photographs, with one classified as Grade A, indicating the most severe level of harm. Additionally, there were three images categorized as Grade B and eleven as Grade C, reflecting varying degrees of severity in the content.

During the sentencing hearing, Jim Osborne, representing Gustar, emphasized that his client, who had no prior criminal record, was deeply remorseful and 'disgusted with his own behaviour.' Despite this, the court had to consider the seriousness of the offense. Judge William Ashworth delivered a sentence that included a two-year probation order, requiring Gustar to adhere to certain conditions and supervision.

Furthermore, Gustar was ordered to pay costs amounting to £160 and was directed to provide £500 in compensation to Victim Support, an organization that assists victims of such crimes. The court also imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which restricts Gustar's activities and access to certain online content, and mandated that he register as a sex offender on the Sex Offenders' Register for a period of five years.

The judge issued a stern warning that any breach of these conditions could result in a prison sentence of up to five years, underscoring the gravity of the offense and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children from exploitation and abuse.