SIMON HAND FROM REDRUTH ESCAPES JAIL AFTER MAKING INDECENT IMAGES OF CHILDREN IN LOOE

In August 2016, a man from Redruth named Simon Hand was involved in a disturbing case concerning the creation of indecent images of children. Despite being found guilty of multiple charges, Hand narrowly avoided imprisonment, a decision that has sparked considerable discussion and concern within the community.

Simon Hand, aged 31 and residing on Wesley Street in Redruth, was brought before Truro Crown Court to face charges related to the production of indecent images. The court proceedings revealed that Hand had committed these offences in the coastal town of Looe, with the incidents spanning from October 2009 to May 2015. The jury convicted him on seven counts of making such images, which included two of the most serious Category A images, two Category B images, and the remaining images classified as Category C.

During the sentencing hearing, the court was informed that Hand was visibly disappointed with the jury’s verdict and appeared unwilling to accept his guilt. His defense, led by Richard Smith QC, highlighted that Hand had taken steps to address his behavior, including self-imposing an internet ban following his arrest. Additionally, he had already signed a sexual harm prevention order, demonstrating some level of compliance and remorse.

Sir John Royce, sitting as a deputy High Court judge, acknowledged that the number of images was relatively small and noted that Hand had previously been considered a man of good character. Despite this, the judge sentenced Hand to nine months in prison, but the sentence was suspended for 12 months, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed another offence within that period. Hand was also ordered to pay costs amounting to £750.

Furthermore, the court mandated that Hand undergo a 20-day rehabilitation program aimed at addressing his behavior. He was also prohibited from using a computer capable of recording or deleting internet history, with strict instructions not to attempt to erase any online activity. As part of the case's aftermath, authorities seized a computer tower and two iPhones linked to the case, which are set to be destroyed to prevent further misuse.

Overall, the case highlights ongoing concerns about online child exploitation and the legal measures taken to prevent such offenses, even when offenders are given suspended sentences. The community in Redruth and Looe remains watchful, hoping that justice is served and that measures are in place to protect vulnerable children from similar crimes in the future.