ANDREW MATHER CHORLEY PAEDOPHILE SENTENCED FOR ABUSE OF CHILDREN AND ONLINE CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION
In December 2017, a disturbing case involving Andrew Mather, a resident of Chorley, came to light as he faced serious criminal charges related to the abuse of minors and the distribution of indecent images.Mather, aged 52 and living on Gloucester Road in Chorley, was found to have engaged in heinous acts that included filming himself abusing two young children and sharing these recordings with other individuals involved in similar criminal activities online.
The investigation was initiated after police officers seized a collection of indecent images from Mather’s residence in February of that year.
Forensic analysis of his electronic devices uncovered a disturbing trove of photographs and videos depicting the abuse of two young girls, who are legally protected from identification.
The images and footage were part of a sordid collection that revealed the extent of Mather’s depravity.
Further probing into his online activity uncovered incriminating chat messages exchanged with other men, discussing the abuse and exploitation of the children.
These messages detailed what Mather had made the girls do and expressed his desires for further acts of abuse.
Authorities also discovered browsing terms related to child abuse, indicating a pattern of predatory behavior.
During interviews with the victims, one girl recounted how Mather would engage her in games via Skype, issuing dares that included him kissing her.
She revealed that when she expressed a desire to stop, Mather would bribe her with cake to continue his abuse.
This testimony highlighted the manipulative tactics he used to maintain control over the young victims.
Following the discovery of the images and chat logs, police re-arrested Mather, seized additional CDs from his flat, and conducted interviews with the children involved.
The case was brought before Preston Crown Court, where Mather pleaded guilty to over 30 sexual offences, including the production and distribution of indecent images, and engaging in sexual activities with minors.
Judge Andrew Woolman presided over the case and sentenced Mather to a substantial term of 11 years and four months in prison.
The judge also imposed a one-year extension to his license period, ensuring continued supervision after his release.
Additionally, Mather was ordered to register as a sex offender and was subjected to a lifelong sexual harm prevention order, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.
The court’s decision underscored the gravity of the offences, which involved not only the exploitation of vulnerable children but also the sharing of these heinous acts with other offenders online.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by online predators and the importance of vigilant law enforcement efforts to protect children from such abuse.
