AN ISLE of Wight man accused of 18 sexual offences against boys, was told the offences he faces are so serious, only a crown court can deal with his case.

Michael Smith, of HMP The Verne, Portland, Dorset, faced the following charges at the Isle of Wight Magistrates' Court, by video link, today (Tuesday, September 3):

  • Rape of a boy aged under 13 years, in Sandown, between May 1, 2004, and March 31, 2008.
  • Engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a boy aged under 13 years, in Sandown, between May 1, 2004, and March 31, 2008. (four counts)
  • Causing or inciting a boy aged under 13 years to engage in sexual activity, involving penetration, in Sandown, between May 1, 2004, and March 31, 2008. (three counts)
  • Causing a child aged under 13 years to watch or look at an image of sexual activity, in Sandown, between May 1, 2004, and March 31, 2008.
  • Assaulting a boy aged under 13 years, by touching, in Sandown, between May 1, 2004, and March 31, 2008.
  • Engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a boy aged under 13 years, in Sandown, between May 1, 2004, and March 31, 2008.
  • Engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a boy aged 13-15 years, in Sandown, between May 1, 2004, and March 31, 2010.
  • Engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a boy aged 13-15 years, in Sandown, between April 1, 2008, and March 31, 2010.
  • Causing or inciting a boy aged 13-15 years, in Sandown, to engage in sexual activity, involving touching, without penetration, between April 1, 2008, and March 31, 2010.
  • Meeting a boy aged under 16 years following sexual grooming, between May 1, 2004, and March 31, 2010.
  • Gross indecency with or towards a boy aged under 16 years, in Sandown, between April 1-30, 2004.
  • Inciting a boy aged under 16 years to commit an act of gross indecency, in Sandown, between April 1, 2003, and April 30, 2004.
  • Indecent assault on a boy aged under 14 years, in Sandown, between April 1, 2003, and April 30, 2004.

No pleas were given and the 60-year-old was bailed to reappear for a plea and trial preparation hearing at the Isle of Wight Crown Court on October 15.