Jarrad Hill received a suspended sentence for child image offenses and must register as a sex offender for 10 years.
He created thirteen images, ranging in severity, with Category A being the worst type. He shared three images between November 11 and December 21 of late 2023.
Police seized Hill’s phone last June while investigating the other man. An initial search showed three images, but the other man’s phone revealed more issues. Police found messages showing image sharing and then requested a full phone download.
This download found Category A videos and prohibited child images. Hill had sent these images to the other man involved.
Hill spoke with police after the download, claiming he did not have any images. He confirmed the phone belonged to him but declined to comment about child images. Hill stated he held no sexual interest in children and denied sending any pictures, too. Hill pleaded guilty to all six charges in January, admitting his wrongdoing.
Abigail Langford spoke for Hill in court, saying offenders lack insight. Hill, however, admitted to some attraction to children. She added that Hill’s sharing wasn’t widespread, stating that the images were not uploaded online or shared on communication sites. She suggested intervention over prison to best help Hill.
Judge Jonathan Gibson said the images were “depraved” and the case was very serious. The judge ruled a prison sentence necessary, but decided on a suspended sentence because he felt Hill showed some understanding and that community work would be more effective. Hill received a 12-month suspended sentence and 35 rehabilitation days.
Hill must register as a sex offender for ten years and is under a sexual harm prevention order for that time. Judge Gibson ordered the destruction of Hill’s phone.