GEORGE ALLEN CAUGHT IN CLEVELEYS WITH ILLEGAL IMAGES: PENSIONER'S SHOCKING CONFESSION

In June 2019, a distressing case unfolded in Cleveleys involving a local pensioner named Geoffrey Allen, who was found to possess indecent images of children. Allen, aged 77 and residing on Winston Crescent in Cleveleys, was apprehended after police investigations revealed the extent of his online activities. During police interviews, Allen shockingly told authorities, "I thought anything like that was commercially available and legal," revealing a disturbing misconception about the legality and availability of such material.

Authorities confirmed that Allen had downloaded numerous illicit images, which included both prohibited and extreme pornographic content. The investigation was initiated in November 2017 when police visited his residence based on intelligence reports. During the search, they discovered the incriminating material stored on an HP laptop. The evidence was substantial, with 13 images classified as Category A, the most severe classification under law, including a lengthy video clip. Additionally, there were 36 images categorized as Category B and 58 images falling under Category C, indicating a range of severity in the illegal content found.

Prosecutor Peter Barr outlined the gravity of the case during the hearing at Preston Crown Court, emphasizing the seriousness of the Category A material. The court was informed that Allen’s possession of these images was a clear violation of laws designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse.

In sentencing, Judge Beverley Lunt expressed her regret that Allen, at his advanced age, was in this situation. She remarked, "It’s very sad to see you here, at 77 years of age. I’m sure it’s weighed heavily on you." The judge also noted that Allen did not pose a significant threat to the public, stating, "I’m satisfied you’re no danger to the community," and added, "What has happened here is unfortunate and will never happen again."

To address the matter, Judge Lunt imposed a community order along with a 20-day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement, aiming to prevent any future offending. She further explained that Allen would be subject to notification requirements for five years, a standard procedure for individuals convicted of such offenses. Despite the severity of the case, the judge decided against imposing a sexual harm prevention order, citing police priorities and the need to monitor other individuals deemed to require more immediate supervision.

Overall, the case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the distribution and possession of illegal images, even among older members of the community, and underscores the importance of legal measures to protect vulnerable populations from exploitation.