GILES PAXTON FROM ACOMB SENTENCED FOR CHILD INDECENT IMAGES IN YORK

In a case that has shocked the local community of Acomb, Giles Thomas Paxton faced justice at York Crown Court for his involvement in possessing a significant number of indecent images depicting children. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about the extent of his offenses and his subsequent response to law enforcement.

On November 12, 2013, police officers executed a raid on Paxton’s residence in Acomb, uncovering a troubling collection of digital material. The search yielded approximately 1,130 sexual images and videos featuring children, some as young as eight years old. Among these, nearly 200 were classified in the most depraved category, highlighting the severity of the material found. The evidence presented in court painted a disturbing picture of Paxton’s activities and the nature of his offenses.

Following his arrest and subsequent charges, Giles Paxton, aged 33 and residing on Milner Street in Acomb, admitted to possessing these indecent images. His plea of guilty to 20 counts of possessing indecent images of children marked a significant moment in the case. During police interviews, Paxton expressed remorse, stating, “I am deeply ashamed and sorry for what I have done. I am thankful for the help and support I have been able to get and the sensitive way the police have handled the case.” His comments reflected a recognition of the gravity of his actions and an appreciation for the police’s approach.

Prosecutor Reginald Bosomworth detailed the findings of the police raid, emphasizing the disturbing nature of the material discovered. The court heard that the images included young girls being abused, with some of the most depraved images being classified in the highest category of severity. The case spanned several years, indicating a prolonged period during which Paxton engaged in these illegal activities.

In sentencing, Recorder Benjamin Nolan QC acknowledged the seriousness of the offenses. He stated, “If you and people like you didn’t get off on this sort of media, then the children would be spared the pain and indignity and no doubt life-changing experience that they suffered… You might just as well abuse the children yourself.” The court imposed an 18-month prison sentence, which was suspended for two years, contingent upon Paxton’s participation in a sex offender treatment program and two years of supervision. Additionally, Paxton was subjected to an indefinite sexual offences prevention order and was placed on the sex offenders’ register for ten years.

During the proceedings, Paxton’s solicitor advocate, Liam Hassan, highlighted that his client had begun counseling to address his sexual offending and had participated in a psychologist’s study aimed at understanding why sex offenders break the law. Hassan emphasized that Paxton was committed to change, despite the serious nature of his crimes. The court also noted that Paxton’s actions had been ongoing over several years, underscoring the long-term impact of his offenses.

Furthermore, the case revealed that Paxton suffers from depression, which his legal representative suggested could lead to the loss of his employment as a consequence of his convictions. The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Acomb, raising concerns about child safety and the importance of vigilant law enforcement in protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation.