Darren Usher, a 35-year-old convicted paedophile from Islington, faced the court again for breaching court orders designed to prevent him from accessing the internet and contacting children. Usher, who has a history of sexual offences involving children, attempted to evade restrictions by purchasing a mobile phone with internet capabilities, defying a court-imposed ban.
Background of the Case Usher, residing at St Helena House on Margery Street, had previously been convicted for indecent images and sexual communication with a child in 2016 and 2019. Following his 2019 conviction at Blackfriars Crown Court, he was prohibited from owning a handset with internet access, a condition set to prevent him from engaging in further illegal activities.
Breach of Court Orders Despite clear restrictions, Usher was found attempting to buy a new mobile phone with internet access from Vodafone. He claimed the store ‘kept plugging ones with internet’ and that the device he purchased did not explicitly state it had internet capabilities. Usher’s failure to comply with the terms of his Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and notification requirements led to his appearance at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, November 24.
Court Proceedings and Defense In court, Usher’s defence argued that the terms of his SHPO were ‘confusing,’ citing that he was allowed to have a laptop and iPad with internet, but not a phone. Usher expressed his intention to avoid future court appearances and imprisonment.
Judge’s Decision Judge Sarah-Jane Griffiths acknowledged the severity of Usher’s breaches but opted for a suspended sentence, partly due to the current strain on prison capacities. She expressed concern over Usher’s repeated violations of court orders but noted his absence of new sexual offences since March 2019. Usher was handed a 12-month sentence for breaching his SHPO and a concurrent six-month sentence for breaching notification requirements, both suspended for two years. He was also ordered to pay £340 in costs to the prosecution.
Community Reaction The decision to suspend Usher’s sentence has raised concerns in the community about the effectiveness of current legal measures in dealing with repeat offenders, particularly those involved in sexual offences against children. The case highlights the challenges faced by the justice system in balancing the need for punishment and rehabilitation, against the backdrop of overcrowded prisons.
Conclusion Darren Usher’s case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in monitoring and rehabilitating convicted sex offenders. It underscores the need for clear, enforceable restrictions and the importance of consistent compliance with court orders to protect vulnerable groups, especially children, from potential harm.
