CRAIG BURKE FROM KILLEARN CAUGHT WITH GRAPHIC CHILD ABUSE VIDEOS IN SHOCKING SCANDAL

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community, Craig Burke, a civil servant from Killearn, was found to be in possession of highly graphic and illegal videos depicting child abuse. The incident came to light during a police raid on his residence in Stirlingshire, where authorities uncovered a disturbing collection of 11 indecent videos involving minors.

Burke, who was employed by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), was discovered with these illicit materials when his home was searched. The police investigation revealed that Burke had been viewing these videos to 'de-stress,' a revelation that has raised serious concerns about his mental state and the potential impact on his professional responsibilities.

During a court hearing at Stirling Sheriff Court, Burke, aged 37, pleaded guilty to charges of possessing and downloading indecent videos of children. The court was informed that he had been caught after police cyber crime units received intelligence indicating that his internet connection, shared with his parents in Killearn, was being used to access illegal material. The police executed a raid on June 6 of the previous year, uncovering the disturbing content.

Prosecutor Adrian Fraser described the videos as 'very graphic,' emphasizing the severity of the material involved. Burke’s defense lawyer, David Fitzatrick, explained that his client was a loner who struggled with coping mechanisms. He stated that Burke had been immediately signed off work with CICA following his arrest and had not returned to his duties since.

Fitzatrick further expressed remorse on Burke’s behalf, saying, 'He is disgusted by his behaviour. He accepts that viewing material like this can increase demand for it and therefore cause further abuse down the line.' The lawyer also highlighted Burke’s prior experience working with victims of childhood sexual abuse, suggesting that he had developed some empathy for those affected.

In sentencing, Sheriff Wyllie Robertson ordered Burke to complete a three-year community payback order. During this period, Burke will be required to participate in the 'Making Changes, Moving Forward' sex offender treatment programme. Additionally, he is prohibited from having contact with anyone under the age of 17 without prior approval from his supervising officer. The court also mandated that any device used by Burke to access the internet must be fitted with monitoring software to track his online activity, and he is barred from using any file-wiping software that could conceal his activity.

This case has prompted a response from the CICA, which confirmed that Burke has not been involved with the agency since his arrest. A spokesperson stated, 'The member of staff has not worked with CICA since his arrest. Following his conviction, we are now taking appropriate action.' The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in tackling online child exploitation and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable minors.