DANIEL HOWES FROM HOLMFIRTH ESCAPES JAIL AFTER CHILD ABUSE VIDEO SCANDAL IN LEEDS

In a case that has shocked the community of Holmfirth, Daniel Howes appeared before Leeds Crown Court in July 2018 after police uncovered disturbing evidence on his electronic devices. Authorities discovered three videos depicting child abuse during a routine check of Howes' computer and mobile phone. These videos were classified as Category A, indicating the most severe level of indecency, and included two duplicates with one being inaccessible to Howes himself.

It was revealed during the court proceedings that Howes, aged 29 and residing on Fairfields Road in Holmbridge, had previously been convicted of possessing four counts of indecent images of children two years prior to this incident. Despite this, he avoided immediate imprisonment after the court was informed that he had successfully completed a specialized course aimed at addressing his offending behavior.

Prosecutor Howard Shaw detailed that the videos found were highly serious, with Howes having searched the internet using terms such as 'schoolgirl' and 'Lolita,' indicating a disturbing pattern of interest. In a police interview, Howes admitted that he might have viewed the videos during a particularly low period in his life, which involved heavy drinking. He pleaded guilty to one count of making indecent images of a child.

Throughout the hearing, it was emphasized that Howes had shown remorse and had taken steps toward rehabilitation, including completing the relevant course. Since then, he has not committed any further offenses. Judge Neil Clark acknowledged the unusual delay in bringing the case to court but took into account the progress Howes had made since the initial offenses.

Addressing the gravity of the matter, Judge Clark stated, “It is a grotesque offence. That child was being abused when that video was taken, but that abuse continues when the video is looked at. It exacerbates the emotional turmoil for the victim.”

As a result, Howes received a six-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. Additionally, he was ordered to participate in a 15-day rehabilitation program, adhere to an electronically monitored curfew for three months, and was subjected to a seven-year sexual harm prevention order. He was also placed on the sex offenders register for the same duration. The court was notably supported by Howes’ father, who was present during the sentencing, reflecting familial backing amidst the serious charges.