Convicted paedophile who discussed torturing and sexually abusing children online.

Convicted Paedophile Given Suspended Jail Sentence

Gavin Smith, 41, of Boleyn Way in Swanscombe, Kent, has been given a three-month suspended jail sentence for discussing torturing and sexually abusing children over the internet.

Smith pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court to nine offences of publishing obscene material.

Kent Police said he was charged over the internet chat in 2010, with the case going to court in November 2011. The case initially collapsed but police and prosecutors successfully appealed.

Smith was brought back to court in July, where he pleaded guilty.

Det Insp David Shipley, from the public protection unit at Kent Police, said as a result of the case, the Obscene Publications Act of 1959 can now be used for online offences where people engage in fantasy chat about the sexual abuse of children.

Smith was previously jailed for his part in the international "Wonderland" paedophile ring in 2001. The computer engineer was then called Gavin Seagers but changed his name.