SIMON JANNSSENS FROM ALVASTON, DERBY, SENT BACK TO PRISON AFTER GOING OFF THE RADAR FOR SIX YEARS

In a case that highlights the ongoing challenges of monitoring convicted sex offenders, Simon Jannssens, a resident of Alvaston in Derby, has been returned to custody after a six-year period during which authorities lost track of him. Jannssens, who was previously convicted of possessing indecent photographs of children, first came to legal attention in August 2003. At that time, he received a nine-month prison sentence, coupled with a 42-month extended licence period. This extended licence was designed to ensure that if he committed any further offences within that timeframe, he could be recalled to prison without the need for a new trial.

Following his release at the end of 2003, Jannssens was mandated to keep police informed of his whereabouts and to participate in a probation programme aimed at addressing his offending behaviour. Initially, he registered an address at a bed and breakfast on Crompton Street and attended two probation sessions, demonstrating some compliance with the conditions set by the court.

However, Derby Crown Court was informed that by early 2004, Jannssens had effectively disappeared, going “off the radar” and making it difficult for authorities to track his movements. It was only at the end of the following year that police managed to locate him again, as part of an investigation conducted by HM Revenue and Customs. During this period, Jannssens had changed his surname to Slater, complicating efforts to find him.

His re-emergence in the authorities’ radar came after his arrest at a property in Alvaston on February 5 of this year. The arrest led to his remand in custody, and he was subsequently ordered to serve the remainder of his original extended licence period. As a result, Jannssens is not expected to be released until March 2012.

Prosecutor Marilyn Nair explained that at the time of his arrest, Jannssens had managed to find employment as a kitchen porter. This employment made it more challenging for authorities to ensure his participation in the probation programme, as he moved before he could be properly monitored by officers. A warrant for his arrest had been issued on April 2, 2004, but it was not executed until February this year.

Jannssens, who has no fixed address, pleaded guilty to charges of failing to notify the police of his change of name and address. During the proceedings, his defence solicitor, Anita Goodman, stated that when Jannssens was arrested, a search of his computer revealed no indecent images. She added that upon his release from prison, Jannssens was deeply ashamed of his actions. Ms. Goodman explained, “He didn’t do what he should have done although he initially registered his first address and went to the first couple of sessions. He struggled deeply and still struggles today to come to terms with that conviction.”

His case underscores the difficulties faced by authorities in tracking and managing offenders who attempt to evade detection, especially when they change identities and move frequently. Jannssens’s return to prison marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to monitor individuals convicted of such serious offences and prevent further harm.