RAVENSHEAD MAN ALEXANDER HITCH SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY IN NOTTINGHAMSHIRE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Ravenshead, Alexander Hitch, a 32-year-old resident of Cheriton Drive, was found to have downloaded nearly 1,000 indecent images and videos depicting child sexual abuse. The investigation was initiated after authorities identified suspicious activity linked to Hitch's IP address, which was used to access illegal material through unauthorized software.

On December 4, 2019, Nottinghamshire Police executed a warrant at Hitch’s residence during the early hours of the morning. This operation was a direct response to intelligence gathered from an earlier incident four months prior, when law enforcement intercepted a user downloading an indecent image. The police raid uncovered a significant cache of illicit content stored on Hitch’s devices, including his computer and mobile phones.

During the search, officers discovered a total of 883 images and videos categorized by severity. Among these, 17 files were classified as Category A, indicating the most serious level of child exploitation material. Additionally, there were 216 images and videos in Category B, and a staggering 660 files in Category C, which, while still illegal, are considered less severe but nonetheless deeply disturbing.

When questioned at the scene, Hitch was asked if he possessed any indecent images on his devices. He responded, “Possibly on my laptop,” and pointed to a device located upstairs next to his bed. During subsequent interviews, Hitch admitted to possessing hundreds of such images and videos, confirming the severity of his actions.

Hitch was arrested on suspicion of making indecent images of children and his electronic devices were seized for forensic analysis. He was subsequently charged and appeared before Nottingham Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images. His plea reflected acknowledgment of the criminal activity he engaged in.

On the day of sentencing, the court handed down a six-month prison sentence, which was suspended for 18 months. This means Hitch will not serve time in prison unless he commits further offenses within the suspension period. The case has raised serious concerns about online safety and the protection of children from exploitation, highlighting the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat such heinous crimes in Nottinghamshire and beyond.