A retired vicar has been jailed after police discovered prohibited images of children on his laptop during an unannounced visit. Andrew Robinson, 77, from Talybont-on-Usk, Brecon, told officers he did not believe the images were illegal.
Previous Conviction and Monitoring
Robinson had already confessed to possessing indecent images of children in April 2025. He received a suspended sentence, was placed on the sex offender's register, and was subject to a sexual harm prevention order. As a result, Dyfed-Powys Police's offender management unit closely monitored him, including conducting unannounced visits.
The Incident
On June 9, 2026, detectives visited Robinson's home for a spot-check. They found an open laptop displaying animated graphic images of children engaging in sexual activity with adults. When questioned, Robinson claimed, "I didn't think these were illegal." After his arrest, he stated, "I have nothing else to do."
Court Proceedings and Sentence
Robinson was charged with possession of a prohibited image of a child and breach of his sexual harm prevention order. He appeared before Merthyr Magistrates' Court on June 10, where he pleaded guilty. The court triggered his suspended sentence and sentenced him to a total of 12 months and 12 weeks in prison, plus a fine of £187.
Police Statement
Detective Sergeant Paula Rutherford condemned Robinson's actions, stating, "Robinson claimed not to know that possessing animated images of children engaging in sexual activity was illegal. The law is clear, and Robinson's behaviour was not just illegal, but wholly immoral and frankly disturbing." She emphasized that viewing such images fuels demand and can lead to more serious offences against children. She praised the team's work in securing the sentence.
