Richard Gallear, a 51-year-old man from Llandysul in west Wales, was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court for possessing and making indecent images of children. The case came to light following a tip-off from Cheshire Police to Dyfed-Powys Police regarding Gallear's online searches for illegal material.
Last October, officers from Dyfed-Powys Police raided Gallear's home at Ger Y Llan, Velindre, where they discovered hundreds of child sex abuse images and bestiality material on his Samsung mobile phone. In total, there were 638 indecent images, categorised as 206 at the most serious level A, 205 at level B, and 227 at level C. The images included distressing films of girls as young as six being raped by men.
During questioning at Cardigan police station, Gallear declined a solicitor, stating he was 'bang to rights'. He admitted to obtaining 'sexual gratification' from the illegal material and confirmed the victims were 'small children', though not babies. Gallear pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images of children.
Prosecutor Dean Pulling outlined the severity of the offences, noting Gallear's use of specialist software to wipe or hide the material, indicating he knew his actions were wrong. The court heard that Gallear had a history of nearly 100 previous convictions for offences including violence, dishonesty, and driving, though none were sexually related.
In mitigation, barrister Jon Tarrant described Gallear's isolated life with no family support, living alone with his two dogs. Judge Catherine Richards remarked, 'You supported the trade in the abuse of children. These are extremely distressing cases,' and added, 'You knew what you were doing.' Despite the gravity, considering potential for community rehabilitation, the judge suspended a 12-month prison sentence for two years. Gallear was ordered to complete a 25-day rehabilitation activity requirement, register as a sex offender for 10 years, and comply with a 10-year sexual harm prevention order. He was also required to pay a statutory victim surcharge.
The case was reported by the Tivyside Advertiser on 17th September, highlighting the collaborative efforts of UK police forces in tackling child exploitation.