ANTHONY MAPE FROM HANDFORTH ESCAPES JAIL AFTER DOWNLOAD OF CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN CHESTER

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Anthony James Mape, a mental health worker residing in Handforth, Cheshire, was found guilty of downloading a vast collection of child abuse images and videos. The incident came to light during a court hearing at Chester Crown Court, where Mape, aged 31 and working in Macclesfield, faced serious allegations related to his possession of these depraved materials.

According to court records, over a period of five years, Mape downloaded a total of 848 indecent images and videos depicting young children engaged in sexual activities. The police investigation, which culminated in December 2016, resulted in the seizure of three hard drives from his residence. These drives, containing the illicit content, are now scheduled for destruction as part of the legal proceedings.

Initially, Mape denied any involvement in searching for or possessing child pornography. However, during the course of the investigation, he pleaded guilty in December to four counts of downloading and possessing images classified under categories A, B, and C, which denote varying degrees of severity in child exploitation material. The court was informed that Mape used file-sharing software to access these images, claiming in police interviews that he used the platform primarily to search for adult pornography, not child abuse content.

Prosecutor Chris Hopkins highlighted the gravity of the images, describing them as ‘utterly revolting’ and emphasizing the heinous nature of the abuse depicted. Judge Patrick Thompson condemned the images as ‘dark’ and ‘dreadful,’ underscoring the severe harm inflicted on the victims. The judge stated, “You searched for, and downloaded, images for your own personal pleasure. You are a pervert. You are responsible for this [abuse] as it is men like you that provide a market for this material being made.”

Despite the seriousness of the charges, Mape was not sentenced to immediate imprisonment. Instead, he received a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, meaning he will not serve time unless he commits further offenses within that period. Additionally, he was ordered to participate in a sexual treatment program and complete a 20-day sexual rehabilitation requirement. As part of his ongoing obligations, Mape is also required to sign the sex offenders’ register for the next ten years and face restrictions on his internet use for the same duration, aimed at preventing any future access to such material.

This case has raised concerns about the presence of such offenders within the community and the importance of vigilant law enforcement in tackling the distribution and possession of child abuse images. The court’s decision reflects the serious stance taken against such crimes, even when offenders avoid immediate jail time, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and rehabilitation.