A man in Swansea, Wales, has been sentenced to three years in prison for arranging to sexually abuse children, including a 10-month-old baby. The defendant, Carl Martin, claimed he only wanted the children to sit on his lap so he could sing a nursery rhyme, but the judge deemed his account as “fanciful”. Martin had interacted with an undercover police officer online, believing the officer was a mother of two. He used a false name and private browsing methods to keep his activities anonymous.
Prosecutors revealed that Martin’s conversations with the decoy were sexual in nature from the outset, discussing “play dates” and the children’s activities. Despite his elusive language, Martin expressed a desire for the children to sit on his lap and straddle him. During the trial, he maintained that his intentions were innocent, claiming he only wanted to take the children to the park and help a single mother. However, the jury found him guilty of arranging a child sexual offense.
In sentencing, the judge highlighted Martin’s deliberate actions to seek out such interactions and use deceptive measures to conceal his identity. The judge noted the defendant’s cagey language and unrealistic explanations, leading to the conclusion that Martin posed a potential danger. Describing Martin’s account as “fanciful,” the judge believed that if given the opportunity, Martin would have gone ahead with penetrative acts with the children.
Carl Martin was sentenced to three years in prison and received a 10-year sexual harm prevention order. He will also be a registered sex offender for the next decade. Martin’s defence highlighted his traumatic childhood experiences but acknowledged the severe impact of the conviction on his life. The judge emphasised the dark side of the defendant and the potential risk he posed to children.
The case serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers posed by individuals like Martin, who actively seek to exploit vulnerable children. The judge’s sentencing reflects the gravity of the offences committed and the need to protect society’s most defenceless members. Martin’s actions underscore the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard children from predators in both physical and online environments.