CHRISTOPHER WAGSTAFF FROM LYNDHURST BANNED FOR A DECADE AFTER CHILD PORNOGRAPHY SCANDAL IN SOUTHAMPTON

In a significant case that has sent shockwaves through the Lyndhurst community, Christopher Wagstaff, a 50-year-old resident of Foldsgate Close in Lyndhurst, was brought before Southampton Crown Court to face serious allegations related to the creation and possession of indecent images of children. The proceedings revealed disturbing details about Wagstaff’s online activities, which included searching for terms such as “pre-teen boys” and “very, very young children being sexually abused or exploited.”

The case came to light after police executed a raid on Wagstaff’s residence on October 17, 2017, based on intelligence reports indicating suspicious online behavior. During the operation, authorities seized a tower computer and a Toshiba laptop, which were later subjected to forensic analysis. Wagstaff was present at his home during the raid and was interviewed by officers, during which he chose not to comment on the allegations.

Further investigation into his electronic devices uncovered a troubling collection of indecent images of children. The police’s digital forensic team discovered that Wagstaff had actively searched for content involving young children, including explicit material involving pre-teen boys. These findings painted a disturbing picture of his online activity, prompting further questioning.

Initially, Wagstaff pleaded not guilty at Southampton Magistrate’s Court. However, during a subsequent plea and trial preparation hearing at Southampton Crown Court, he changed his plea to guilty, admitting to the charges related to the possession and creation of indecent images of minors.

Judge Henry, presiding over the case, sentenced Wagstaff to a ten-year sexual harm prevention order, a measure designed to restrict his access to online content and prevent further offenses. Additionally, Wagstaff was handed a 30-month community order, which requires him to complete 150 hours of unpaid work, undergo rehabilitation for up to 15 days, and participate in a 90-day scheme aimed at men convicted of sexual offenses. These measures reflect the seriousness of his crimes and the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable children from exploitation.

The case underscores the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community awareness in combating online child exploitation. Wagstaff’s actions, uncovered through diligent police work, serve as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the digital world and the need for continued vigilance to safeguard children from harm.