DESMOND MOORE FROM CIRENCESTER ESCAPES JAIL AFTER POSSESSING INDECENT IMAGES OF CHILDREN

In a case that has drawn significant attention in Cirencester and the surrounding areas, 48-year-old Desmond Moore, a man with a background as a soldier, ambulance worker, and part-time firefighter, faced the courts after admitting to possessing indecent images of children. The incident, which spanned nearly four years, culminated in Moore's appearance at Gloucester Crown Court where he pleaded guilty to the charges.

According to court records, authorities discovered seven illegal images on a tablet that was seized from Moore's residence in August 2017. These images were classified as Category C, which is considered the least severe category of illegal images involving minors. The images did not depict explicit nudity, but their possession was still deemed a criminal offense. The prosecution confirmed that Moore had no prior convictions, and notably, they did not request a sexual harm prevention order against him.

During the hearing, a prosecutor detailed the findings, emphasizing that Moore’s actions involved material that was illegal to possess. Despite the seriousness of the charges, the court was informed that Moore’s conduct did not involve the creation or distribution of such images, but merely their possession. The court also learned that Moore’s professional background was largely unblemished, with a commendable discharge note from the army and high praise from his former commanding officer.

Moore’s legal representative argued that his client had served his country and the community, highlighting his roles as an ambulance worker and firefighter. The lawyer acknowledged that Moore did not consider his actions minor but emphasized his contributions to society. The judge, however, challenged Moore directly during sentencing, asking if he truly appreciated the harm caused to children and the cycle of suffering perpetuated by such offenses. Moore responded affirmatively, saying, “Yes sir.”

As a consequence of his actions, Moore faced significant professional repercussions. He was effectively dismissed from his position as a retained firefighter and was suspended from his duties with the ambulance service. The court heard that these consequences had already had a profound impact on his life.

In delivering the sentence, the judge expressed hope that the public humiliation and personal destruction Moore experienced would serve as a deterrent. Moore was sentenced to an 18-month community order, which includes 30 days of rehabilitation activities and the completion of 100 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £485 in court costs and surcharges. As part of his sentence, Moore will also be required to register as a sex offender for five years. The judge concluded by stating that he hoped the sentence would prevent any future offenses, emphasizing the importance of protecting children from harm.