ANDREW SERRIDGE FROM BEBINGTON CAUGHT WITH SICKENING IMAGES IN LIVERPOOL COURT

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Bebington and the wider Merseyside area, Andrew Serridge, a 55-year-old man residing on Kings Lane in Higher Bebington, was brought before Liverpool Crown Court to face serious allegations related to child exploitation and possession of indecent material. The case unfolded after authorities responded to evidence gathered by a dedicated paedophile hunting team that had been monitoring Serridge's online activity on Snapchat.

On July 29, 2021, Merseyside Police officers executed a search warrant at Serridge's residence. The investigation was initiated following covert surveillance and digital monitoring, which revealed troubling messages and content linked to the suspect. During the search, law enforcement officials seized his mobile phone and tablet devices for forensic examination.

Analysis of Serridge's Samsung mobile phone uncovered a disturbing collection of digital material. A total of 90 indecent images were identified, including five videos classified in the most severe category of illegal content. An additional 64 images were also recovered. These files had been downloaded over an 18-month period, from January 15, 2020, to July 16, 2021. Among the material was a particularly heinous image depicting bestiality, downloaded on October 26, 2019, which evidence suggested had been shared with another user via WhatsApp.

Further investigation revealed that Serridge's device had been used to search for indecent images of children during the months of May through July 2021. This pattern of activity indicated a sustained interest in such material, raising serious concerns about his intentions and the potential risk posed to children.

When questioned by police, Serridge initially refused to comment on the allegations. During subsequent interviews, he denied intentionally downloading the images, claiming he had only seen some of them. Despite his denials, he pleaded guilty to five charges, which included making indecent images, possessing indecent images, and possessing an extreme pornographic image.

The court heard that Serridge's actions spanned over a lengthy period, with the judge noting the seriousness of the offences, especially given the inclusion of moving images. The judge also acknowledged that Serridge had no prior convictions and that he had taken responsibility by pleading guilty and attempting to address his offending behavior.

As a consequence of his actions, Serridge faced significant repercussions. He had previously been employed as a digital horse designer working with disabled children, a position he lost once the offences came to light. However, he has since found new employment, earning approximately £35,000 annually.

In sentencing, Recorder Knifton handed Serridge a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. The court also mandated that he complete 240 hours of unpaid community work and participate in 30 days of rehabilitation activities. Additionally, Serridge was subjected to a ten-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and was ordered to register as a sex offender for the same duration, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community from potential harm.