DAVID HANSTEAD FROM MALDON ESCAPES JAIL AFTER CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES IN CHELMSFORD

In a case that has shocked the community of Maldon, David Hanstead, a 49-year-old resident of Rydal Drive, narrowly avoided a custodial sentence after being found in possession of a significant collection of illegal images. The incident came to light in July of the previous year when authorities seized hard drives from Hanstead's two computers, revealing a disturbing cache of over 3,000 images depicting young boys.

Hanstead faced multiple charges related to the downloading and possession of these illicit images. Specifically, he admitted to downloading 1,741 images on one computer and 1,531 on another, spanning the period from April 17, 2009, to July 15, 2010. The images ranged in severity, with some classified as the most extreme, marked as level five on a scale of one to five, indicating highly disturbing content involving children.

During the court proceedings at Chelmsford Crown Court, Hanstead pleaded guilty to four charges concerning the possession and downloading of these prohibited images. The court heard that he was obsessed with viewing such material, which led Judge Anthony Goldstaub QC to describe him as a 'fantasist' fixated on viewing child pornography on his computer.

While the prosecution argued for a custodial sentence, citing the serious nature of the crimes, the judge acknowledged that the minimum sentence would likely see Hanstead released from prison within a few weeks. Recognizing the need for a balanced approach, Judge Goldstaub decided on a sentence of six months' imprisonment, suspended for two years. This means Hanstead will not serve time in prison unless he commits another offence within the suspension period.

In addition to the suspended sentence, the court ordered the destruction of all of Hanstead's computer equipment to prevent further access to such material. Furthermore, he was mandated to participate in an internet sex offenders' treatment programme, aimed at addressing his behaviour and preventing future offences. As part of the court's judgment, Hanstead was also required to sign the sex offenders register, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

The case has raised concerns within the Maldon community about the presence of such disturbing material and the importance of vigilant law enforcement in protecting vulnerable children from exploitation and abuse.