BARRY CATLIN FROM BRACKNELL AND BRIGHTON FACES SERIOUS CHARGES OVER INDECENT IMAGES

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Bracknell and Brighton, Barry Catlin, a 58-year-old resident of Crowthorne Road in Bracknell, has been found guilty of possessing indecent images and has faced significant legal consequences. The incident came to light during a court hearing held at Reading Crown Court on Monday, July 12, where Catlin appeared to answer multiple serious charges.

Catlin was charged with three counts related to the possession of indecent photographs, alongside a separate charge for breaching a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO). The court proceedings revealed that Catlin had been involved in the possession of illicit images, which prompted the judge to impose a strict set of conditions to prevent any further offenses.

Despite the gravity of the charges, Catlin was handed an 18-month prison sentence that was suspended, meaning he would not serve time immediately but would be under strict supervision and conditions. Additionally, he was ordered to participate in a rehabilitation program spanning 40 days, aimed at addressing underlying issues related to his offending behavior.

One of the most significant rulings was the issuance of a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) that will remain in effect for 20 years. This order is designed to restrict Catlin’s activities and prevent him from engaging in behaviors that could harm children or facilitate further offenses. The SHPO prohibits him from visiting locations where children are likely to be present, such as playgrounds or parks, and restricts his internet access unless monitored with appropriate software. It also forbids him from deleting internet history, which is a common measure to prevent concealment of illicit activity.

Law enforcement authorities are empowered to conduct unannounced visits to Catlin’s residence to ensure compliance with the conditions of the SHPO. These measures are part of a broader effort to protect the community and prevent recidivism among offenders with a history of such crimes.

In a related case from November 2009, Catlin’s criminal history includes a conviction in Brighton, where he was a driving instructor. He was sentenced to 15 months in prison for collecting and possessing hundreds of indecent images of children. The police investigation was triggered when Catlin emailed another suspected paedophile, which led officers to discover that he had amassed a total of 549 inappropriate images on his computers.

Catlin, then aged 46 and residing on Bonchurch Road in Brighton, worked as a driving instructor for the Brighton and Hove Bus Company. He admitted to 19 offenses involving the making, distribution, and possession of indecent images, with activities spanning from June 2005 to December of the previous year. His arrest and subsequent conviction followed a detailed investigation by detectives, who uncovered the material sent by Catlin to a suspect, revealing a disturbing pattern of behavior.

As part of his sentence, Catlin was also banned from working with children or being alone with minors for a period of ten years. Furthermore, he was prohibited from owning or using a computer for personal purposes during this time, although he was permitted to use one for work-related tasks or in public libraries. He is also required to register as a sex offender for ten years, ensuring ongoing monitoring and community safety.