A convicted sex offender has avoided prison despite once again failing to comply with strict police notification rules.
Steve Gubbins, 50, who claims Universal Credit, ignored the requirement to notify police within three days of moving address after becoming a registered sex offender.
Wolverhampton Crown Court heard that a police officer visited Gubbins' registered address on January 5, 2026, only to be told he had “left” and had not been seen since December 3, 2025.
READ MORE: State pensioners receive key update on future of DWP triple lock
READ MORE: Ticket Price Hike Sparks Anger Ahead of Edgbaston Ashes Test
Subsequent investigations led officers to locate and arrest Gubbins at a property in Codsall on January 13, according to prosecutor Pat Kelly.
Gubbins admitted to failing to comply with the sex offender notification requirements.
The court was told that Gubbins has a lengthy criminal history, with 12 convictions for 19 offences dating back to 1991. Five of these convictions relate to sex offences, and he has previously been convicted for similar notification breaches.
Mr Kelly described Gubbins as having “a history of disobedience with court orders,” including multiple similar offences in the past.
Defence barrister Glenn Cook informed the court that Gubbins, who was released on bail prior to sentencing, has since maintained contact with police as required. The defendant also receives Personal Independence Payment alongside Universal Credit from the Department for Work and Pensions.
Recorder Williams KC, sentencing, noted that previous suspended sentences for failing to comply with notification requirements had not been effective in changing Gubbins' behaviour.
He acknowledged that probation officers suggested Gubbins might perceive these requirements as an undue interference, but emphasised their necessity for public safety.
The judge warned Gubbins he must adhere to the conditions or face further court action but indicated a willingness to “give you a chance to prove that you have already began to learn your lesson.”
Consequently, Gubbins was handed an 18-month community order, which includes a 32-day rehabilitation activity requirement and a £150 costs order. The sentence aims to enable him to work with probation services to address his “underlying attitude” and reduce the risk of reoffending.
Gubbins, from Carter Avenue, Codsall, left court without receiving a prison sentence on Thursday, August 20.