BARRY FITZHUGH CAUGHT IN NORTHAMPTON WITH CHILD PORN AND SEXUAL ABUSE CHARGES

In a case that shocked the Northampton community, Barry Fitzhugh, a 53-year-old man residing on Craven Street in The Mounts area, was finally brought to justice after a series of serious allegations involving child sexual abuse and possession of indecent images. The incident that led to his arrest began at the Dataforce warehouse located in Moulton, Northampton, where Fitzhugh was employed. During his shift, he left his mobile phone unattended on a forklift truck, a seemingly minor oversight that ultimately uncovered a disturbing pattern of criminal activity.

Fitzhugh’s mobile device was discovered by a colleague, who noticed something suspicious and reported it to authorities. Upon seizing the phone, investigators found it contained numerous child pornography images, which served as critical evidence in the case. Further examination of Fitzhugh’s computer revealed additional indecent images, confirming the extent of his illegal activities.

As the investigation progressed, two women came forward to authorities, revealing that Fitzhugh had sexually abused them when they were children. These testimonies added a deeply troubling dimension to the case, illustrating a pattern of predatory behavior that spanned years.

Fitzhugh was charged with multiple serious offenses, including rape, five counts of indecent assault, eight acts of gross indecency, and possession of 130 images depicting child abuse. His actions and the evidence collected against him painted a disturbing picture of a man who had exploited vulnerable children for his own gratification.

Following a court hearing, Fitzhugh admitted to the charges, acknowledging his guilt in the crimes he was accused of. As a result, he was sentenced to a prison term of nine years, a punishment deemed appropriate by the judicial system given the severity of his offenses. His conviction serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the ongoing fight against child exploitation and abuse in Northampton and beyond.