A Geelong man has been sentenced to more than four years in prison for possessing child abuse material and committing an indecent act in front of a child.
Sentencing Details
Jacob Dwyer, 25, appeared in the County Court of Victoria on Friday, where he was sentenced to four years and three months behind bars. He will be eligible for parole after serving two years and three months.
Dwyer pleaded guilty to one count of using a carriage service to access child abuse material and one count of committing an indecent act with a child under 16.
Offences
The court heard that between March and September 2023, Dwyer accessed child abuse material on his phone. In a separate incident, he masturbated in front of a child in Geelong.
Judge Michael Bourke described the offences as serious and noted the significant impact on the victim.
"The offending is grave and has caused lasting harm to the victim," Judge Bourke said.
Defence Arguments
Defence lawyer Sarah Wilson argued that Dwyer had a troubled background and was seeking help for his issues. She said he had engaged in counselling and was remorseful for his actions.
"He has taken steps to address his behaviour and is genuinely sorry for the distress he has caused," Ms Wilson said.
Prosecution Response
Prosecutor Emma Burke highlighted the need for general deterrence and the protection of children. She said the offences were premeditated and involved a significant breach of trust.
"The community must be protected from such offending," Ms Burke said.
Court Outcome
In addition to the prison term, Dwyer will be placed on the sex offenders register for life. He was also ordered to forfeit his mobile phone.
Judge Bourke said the sentence was intended to reflect the seriousness of the offending and to deter others from similar conduct.
