FRANCIS STEVENSON SENTENCED IN ABERDEEN FOR HORRIFIC CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENSES IN FINZEAN

In a case that has shocked the local community and brought to light the disturbing extent of child exploitation, Francis Stevenson, aged 58, was sentenced to prison after authorities uncovered an alarming collection of indecent images of children. The incident came to light during proceedings at Aberdeen Sheriff Court, where Stevenson appeared to face charges related to the possession and creation of such illicit material.

Stevenson, who has ties to Finzean in Aberdeenshire, pleaded guilty to multiple charges involving the possession of indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of minors, as well as taking, permitting to be taken, or making such images. The offences spanned a period from May 1993 up until June of the previous year, highlighting a prolonged period of criminal activity.

According to the prosecution, led by depute fiscal Katy Begg, authorities discovered a staggering collection of images on Stevenson’s devices. Nearly 1,000 of these images were classified as Category A, indicating the most severe level of indecency, while over 85,000 fell into Category C, which is considered less serious but still deeply troubling. In addition to the images, investigators also found numerous videos depicting similar illicit content, underscoring the gravity of the case.

During the court hearing, Sheriff Morag McLaughlin expressed her unequivocal stance on the matter, stating, “There is no other disposal that can be justified other than a custodial sentence.” Recognizing the severity of the crimes, she sentenced Stevenson to 27 months in prison. Furthermore, she ordered that Stevenson be subject to the notification requirements of the Sexual Offences Act for a period of ten years, ensuring ongoing monitoring and protection measures.

At the time of sentencing, Stevenson’s address was recorded as Ealing, London, although his criminal activities were linked to his residence in Finzean, Aberdeenshire. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat child exploitation and the importance of stringent legal consequences for such heinous offenses.