Frenchman cleared of distributing indecent images of children

Mr W admitted possessing indecent images of children but denied intentionally distributing the illicit material online.

The Frenchman, who was of previous good character, faced a likely jail sentence if convicted of indecent image distribution.

Mr W was interviewed without the benefit of a solicitor and instructed Kate Blackmore, from Stuart Miller Solicitors, after his second interview with the police.

Ms Blackmore, who has vast experience dealing with sexual offence cases, started preparing his defence immediately.

She worked tirelessly to explore avenues available to Mr W, including requesting that an independent computer expert analyse the prosecution case.

The report revealed that the images alleged to have been distributed could no longer be viewed – meaning there was no evidence that the images were in fact indecent.

Ms Blackmore drafted a strong letter of representations requesting that the Crown Prosecution Service drop the distribution charge.

A spokesman for Stuart Miller Solicitors said: “Without instructing an expert and testing this evidence, this would not have been established and would have had a detrimental effect on the defendant’s case.

“After consideration of our strong letter of representations, the Crown decided to offer no evidence to both charges of distribution.”

Mr W was formally acquitted of distributing indecent images and was sentenced only for having indecent images.