GRAHAM PLANT FROM SHAP FACES JAIL AFTER ADMITTING TO DOWNLOADING HUNDREDS OF CHILD INDECENT IMAGES IN CUMBRIA

In a serious case heard at Carlisle Crown Court, Graham Plant, a 57-year-old resident of West Close in the village of Shap, has admitted to a series of disturbing offences involving the possession and creation of indecent images of children. The court was informed that Plant pleaded guilty to five separate charges related to the illegal collection and distribution of such material, which has raised significant concern among local communities and law enforcement agencies alike.

Specifically, Plant admitted to making a total of 74 indecent photographs of children classified as Category A, which is considered the most severe level of such images. In addition, he acknowledged possessing 60 images categorized as Category B, and a staggering 778 images classified as Category C, which are prohibited under current legislation. These images were reportedly downloaded and stored over a period spanning from August 2008 to October 2015, indicating a prolonged period of offending.

Furthermore, Plant admitted to two counts of possessing extreme pornographic material, one of which is alleged to feature an animal, adding an even more disturbing dimension to the case. The nature of these offences underscores the severity of the crimes and the potential harm caused to victims depicted in such images.

Judge James Adkin, presiding over the case, decided to adjourn proceedings to allow for a comprehensive report from the probation service. The judge emphasized the importance of understanding Plant’s background and the reasons behind his engagement in such illegal activities. During the hearing, Judge Adkin clarified that the adjournment did not imply any predetermined sentence, stating, “Simply because I am adjourning for reports, please don’t think I have decided what the sentence will be. I have not. All options are open to me.”

Plant was granted bail and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 12. The case has attracted considerable attention due to the serious nature of the offences and the potential consequences for the defendant. The court’s decision to seek further reports indicates that the final sentencing will consider various factors, including Plant’s background and the extent of his offending behavior.