A former firefighter resigned from his job after sending sexually explicit Snapchat messages to trainee colleagues. 

Alastair Iles, 37, resigned from his role at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service after sending the messages which included images of him “engaging in sexualised behaviour” between January 2019 and June 2021.

The messages, which included both photos and videos, were sent in Southampton to three trainees working at the fire service at the time. 

In a statement read at Southampton Magistrates' Court, one of them said the incident made them "feel vulnerable and that I could not trust anyone anymore".

"After these events took place I lost a lot of trust in people," the victim continued.

"Beforehand I had a much bubblier personality. I didn't realise how far people go especially after saying no and to stop. 

"I have struggled for years over this."

Daily Echo: Southampton Magistrates' CourtSouthampton Magistrates' Court (Image: NQ)

Another of Iles' victims said: "I feel that Allie has impacted my career since the moment I met him. 

"He used to belittle people daily. He would purposefully make you feel like you need to do better.

"He would also make people think they were bad at their jobs.

"I used to pride myself on being outspoken and doing the right thing however Allie completely took my voice away from me.

"No one should have to feel the way any of us did because of the actions of one person."

Iles, of Winchester Road, New Milton, was found guilty of three counts of sending by public communication network an offensive, indecent, obscene or menacing message.

He was acquitted of a further three offences. 

The court heard that Iles had resigned from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service in “humiliating circumstances” after the charges.

Speaking at his sentencing on Thursday, District Judge Anthony Callaway told him: "With authority comes responsibility and decency and that is to be used not to exploit or humiliate others at work and that means those who looked at you to give them an example.

"You are embarrassed and ashamed of your behaviour.

"Had you had true remorse you would have pleaded guilty at an earlier opportunity."

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Iles received a three-year community order with an accredited sexual offending programme and 60 rehabilitation days. 

He must also complete 100 hours of unpaid work and pay £620 court costs.

Mitigating, Will Day said his client was a "man of good character until this case" and resigned from his role at the fire service after the incidents. 

He has since found work elsewhere. 

Mr Day added: "He does feel shame and has expressed some regret.

"He has confirmed he is motivated and able to undertake any order of the court.

"He said to me I never want to come back to court for anything ever again."