Paul Robertson 48

Description

A Carlisle sex offender, Paul Robertson, 48, was caught with 38 extreme pornographic videos depicting women being shot with guns and crossbows before being sexually abused.

Previously jailed in 2013 for downloading indecent child images and causing death by dangerous driving, Robertson admitted five offences at Carlisle Crown Court: possessing extreme pornographic images, two counts of failing to comply with the Sex Offender Register by not disclosing online usernames, and two breaches of his sexual harm prevention order by not reporting internet-connected devices.

Police, alerted by monitoring software, found a hidden PlayStation 5 and a USB stick containing the illegal videos, downloaded in 2023, during a search of Robertson’s home. Prosecutor Andrew Evans said Robertson claimed he thought the videos, which he found “too much,” were not illegal and believed he couldn’t delete them. Defence barrister Marion Weir acknowledged the “serious and shocking” nature of the content but noted Robertson’s ADHD diagnosis, which affects his memory and impulse control. She highlighted his willingness to address his behaviour and that the videos included a disclaimer suggesting no harm was caused.

Judge Nicholas Barker called the videos “deplorable, depraved” and condemned the “disturbing and immoral” concept of such imagery. He sentenced Robertson to a 14-month suspended jail term for two years, including 25 rehabilitation activity days, 180 hours of unpaid work, and a Building Better Choices Programme. The existing sexual harm prevention order remains indefinitely.