35-year-old Jonathan Maertens, who was jailed for life with a minimum term of 16 years for the sexual abuse of 9 children, has had his sentence extended on appeal.
Maertens, from Freshwater, recorded himself abusing the girls aged between 4 and 17.
Following an investigation, during which almost 2,500 pieces of footage and 12,000 indecent images detailing his direct offending were found on hard drives, the paedophile pleaded guilty to 34 separate indictments including multiple counts of rape.
Maertens was subsequently jailed for life with a minimum of 16 years at Isle of Wight Crown Court on 23rd November last year. However, the court’s decision was referred to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence (ULS) Scheme.
At a hearing today (Friday), the court found Maertens’ sentence was unduly lenient and extended the minimum term to be served to 25 years.
Detective Sergeant Damon Kennard has said:
“We welcome the Court of Appeal decision today to extend the sentence of Jonathan Maertens.
“I hope this provides further justice to the girls and their families, who continue to receive support from services as they seek to move on with their lives.
Article continues below this advertisement “We take all reports of sexual assault extremely seriously and will do everything we can to bring those responsible to justice.
“It is vital for us that people have the confidence to report incidents to us.
“Anyone who has been a victim of child abuse, or has any information about this type of abuse, is encouraged to contact police on 101. Alternatively, contact Child Line on 0800 11 11, or if you are an adult who has been affected, you can call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.”
In 9 years I vote we extend it by 9 years. Victims of these attacks have mental life sentences.
Still not long enough, he’ll still be capable when released. The sentence should have included surgical castration.
With that much content of his own crimes I can’t help to think he must have been part of a pedo ring on the island. You see it on the news all the time how these people share their videos by selling mobile phones loaded with them. Makes feel like being sick just thinking about it.
West wight paedophile get harris extended by nine years..
Should be a whole life sentence end of.
Island full of nonces and snitches .
excuse me? – snitches – are you implying that those who report sex crimes are snitches? Think you need to have a long hard look at yourself.
full of nonces – jeez – i trust you have some evidence to back up your claim ?