Maidenhead man jailed for child sex offences and meeting a 10-year-old boy he'd groomed
Smither had offered the child gifts and money, spending significant time alone with him, and taking him on holiday
A 26-year-old man from Maidenhead has been sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple child sex offences.
Matthew Smither, of Fifield Road, was sentenced at Reading Crown Court following an investigation by Thames Valley Police.
Smither faced charges including causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, engaging in sexual communications with a child, and meeting a child under 16 following grooming.
The investigation began when Surrey Police received a report on 10th December 2025 from a parent concerned about inappropriate communications between Smither and a 10-year-old boy.
According to enquiries, Smither had fostered a close relationship with the child over several years, offering gifts and money, spending significant time alone, and taking him on holiday.
A review of Smither's digital devices uncovered sexually inappropriate messages and voice notes sent to the victim.
The case was subsequently transferred to Thames Valley Police, leading to Smither's arrest on 18th December 2025.
During his police interview, he admitted to sending the messages and engaging in inappropriate conduct.
He was charged the following day.
Detective Constable Laura Bevan of the Berkshire East CID team praised the victim and their family for their bravery.
“I would like to commend the incredible bravery of the victim and their family. Their courage in coming forward and putting their trust in the police has played a vital role in bringing a dangerous and harmful man to justice," Bevan said.
She encouraged anyone with concerns for a child to contact the police, reassuring that "we will listen and we will work tirelessly to bring the perpetrators of these crimes to justice.”