CLIVE ANDREWS FROM BRITFORD SENTENCED AFTER CHILD ABUSE IMAGE DISCOVERY IN SALISBURY

In a case that has shocked the local community of Britford and garnered attention at Salisbury Crown Court, Clive Andrews, aged 58, was sentenced to a 36-month community order following the discovery of hundreds of child abuse images stored on discs at his residence. The investigation into Andrews' activities was initiated after authorities traced his details back to a subscription linked to a child abuse website that had been shut down in Texas in 1999, as part of a comprehensive worldwide probe.

Police executed warrants at Andrews' home on High Road, Britford, in January of the previous year. During the search, officers confiscated his computer, multiple discs, and other electronic items. The prosecution, led by Colin Meeke, revealed that Andrews had admitted to finding images of child abuse while searching for adult pornography. He claimed that he had saved these images but subsequently deleted them, attempting to conceal his activities.

Andrews denied any knowledge of being subscribed to the child abuse website and was unable to provide a clear explanation as to why his personal details appeared on the database associated with the site. Further investigation uncovered that his computer was running a program called Evidence Eliminator, which is designed to erase internet browsing history, making it difficult to trace online activity.

During the court proceedings, Andrews' defense lawyer, Ian Kelsey, argued that his client was a victim of identity fraud dating back to 1999. Kelsey explained that Andrews used the Evidence Eliminator software to prevent further identity theft. Despite this, he pointed out that Andrews had backed up all data onto disks and was able to inform police of the location of the stored items when questioned.

Judge Keith Cutler addressed the court with a somber tone, remarking on the gravity of the case. He stated, “I have already indicated how sad it is for someone in my position to find someone in your position staring at each other across the court. The greatest punishment you have received is to be standing where you are now.”

Judge Cutler also emphasized that Andrews was unlikely to re-offend, provided he adhered to the conditions of his community order. These conditions included supervision throughout the duration of the order, attendance at a sex offender’s program if deemed necessary, and registration on the Sex Offenders Register for five years. The court’s decision reflects a balance between punishment and the hope for rehabilitation, but the case remains a stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding child exploitation and online safety.