ANDREW JOHNSON FROM ABBEY HULTON CAUGHT WITH THOUSANDS OF CHILD SEX ABUSE IMAGES

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Abbey Hulton, Andrew Johnson, a 53-year-old resident of Eaveswood Road, was found to possess an alarming collection of indecent images depicting children. The investigation was initiated after police executed a search warrant at Johnson’s estranged wife’s residence, where he was still residing at the time. The authorities uncovered multiple electronic devices containing a vast array of illicit material, including photographs and videos involving minors as young as one or two years old, with victims aged between five and 14.

On March 20, police seized a memory stick and two computer towers from Johnson’s address. These devices were subjected to detailed analysis, revealing a horrifying collection of images categorized by severity. The findings included 1,464 images classified as Category A, indicating the most serious content, along with 942 Category B images and an overwhelming 5,300 Category C images. Additionally, the devices contained 21 Category A movies, 15 Category B movies, and 15 Category C movies, all depicting child abuse. The investigation also uncovered 51 images classified as extreme pornographic material.

Andrew Johnson faced multiple charges, including six counts of making indecent photographs of a child and possessing extreme pornographic images, with the offences spanning from June 1, 2011, to March 20, 2014. During the court proceedings at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, Johnson pleaded guilty to these charges. Prosecutor Neil Ahuja detailed the extent of the evidence, emphasizing the severity of the material found on the devices.

In his defense, Robert Holt, representing Johnson, highlighted that his client had no previous convictions. Holt also stated that Johnson was now fully aware of the gravity of his actions and expressed remorse, acknowledging the shame he had brought upon himself and his family. The judge, Paul Glenn, acknowledged the seriousness of the offences but noted that Johnson’s conduct did not warrant a custodial sentence of the length initially considered. While the offences could have resulted in an eight-month jail term, the judge decided that Johnson’s potential for rehabilitation was a more appropriate focus.

Consequently, Judge Glenn sentenced Andrew Johnson to a three-year community order, which includes three years of supervision and a requirement to complete an internet sex offender treatment program. The court also ordered him to pay costs amounting to £240 and a surcharge of £60. Furthermore, Johnson will be registered as a sex offender for five years and is prohibited from engaging in activities involving children and vulnerable adults. The judge emphasized the heinous nature of the crimes, stating, “These are real children being abused for the entertainment of people like you who resort to these websites and access this material. Some of the children were very young indeed and in pain and distress.”

Judge Glenn acknowledged that Johnson had struggled with alcohol issues during his marriage breakdown but noted that he had sought professional help and expressed genuine remorse. He concluded by affirming his belief that Johnson is capable of rehabilitation, provided he adheres to the court’s conditions and continues his treatment.