BRIAN ALLEN FROM ALNWICK SENTENCED AFTER DISCOVERY OF HUNDREDS OF CHILD INDECENT IMAGES IN NORTH EAST

In December 2015, a disturbing case emerged involving Brian Allen, a resident of Alnwick, who was found to possess an alarming collection of indecent images and videos depicting children. The authorities uncovered that Allen had accumulated more than 530 illicit photographs and videos on his personal computer, some of which showed a young victim in states of distress and discomfort. This revelation has sparked widespread concern over the safety of children and the severity of online exploitation.

Allen, aged 34 and living on Angel Lane in Alnwick, was identified as a 'porn addict' by prosecutors, with a particular focus on illegal material involving minors. Investigations revealed that he had downloaded explicit content featuring girls aged between six and thirteen years old. His online activity included the use of specific search terms such as 'pre-teen hardcore,' indicating a disturbing interest in very young children. The illegal material was obtained through peer-to-peer file-sharing software, a method that connects multiple computers within a network to facilitate the sharing of files. This technology allowed Allen to access and download the illicit images with relative ease.

The case came to light after police seized Allen’s computer tower during an investigation. The digital evidence was substantial, leading to charges against him. Allen initially denied the allegations but later changed his plea to guilty just before the trial proceedings commenced. He faced multiple counts related to the possession and creation of indecent images of children.

At Newcastle Crown Court, the prosecution, led by Bridie Smurthwaite, detailed the extent of Allen’s illegal collection. It was revealed that he possessed 282 images classified as Category A, which included both still images and videos depicting penetrative sexual activity. Of these, 242 were videos. Additionally, he had 103 Category B images, which involved non-penetrative sexual acts, including 67 films. The collection also contained 150 Category C images, which are considered less severe but still indecent, with 41 of these being videos.

During the hearing, the court was informed that Allen’s actions were not only extensive but also deeply disturbing. The evidence included a particular image showing a child engaged in sexual activity with a male, with the child appearing to be distressed and uncomfortable. Judge Milford QC emphasized that Allen’s use of specific search terms demonstrated a clear intent to find such distressing material.

In sentencing, the judge acknowledged the seriousness of the crimes but opted for a suspended sentence. Allen was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offences. The court also mandated that Allen participate in a sexual offences group-work programme to address his deviant sexual interests. Furthermore, he was placed under a two-year supervision order, a five-year sexual harm prevention order, and was required to register as a sex offender for the next ten years. These measures aim to monitor his activities and prevent any future harm to children, reflecting the gravity of his offences and the ongoing concern for child safety in the community of Alnwick and beyond.