JOHN COXHEAD FROM SHIPTONTHORPE CAUGHT WITH 808 CHILD PORN IMAGES IN EAST RIDING

In October 2010, a serious case involving a local education officer from Shiptonthorpe captured public attention due to the disturbing nature of his crimes. John Coxhead, aged 59, was found in possession of an alarming collection of 808 indecent images of children, some of which were classified at the highest levels of severity. The incident came to light when Coxhead, who was employed by East Riding Council as a work-related learning coordinator, took his computer to a repair shop. Staff at the shop discovered the illicit images and promptly alerted law enforcement authorities.

At Hull Crown Court, Judge John Dowse addressed Coxhead directly, emphasizing the gravity of his actions. He stated, "Cases such as yours are said to fuel exploitation that’s why the courts take such a serious view about them. You must know you stand on the threshold of a custodial sentence." The court proceedings revealed that Coxhead had been serving as an educational welfare officer for over a decade, a role that involved placing troubled young individuals, particularly those aged 15 and 16 who had been permanently excluded from school, into appropriate training programs.

During the hearing, Coxhead admitted to 12 counts related to the creation and possession of the 808 indecent images. He explained that pressures at work had driven him to view these images, a behavior he attributed to a mental health breakdown he suffered six years prior, which was diagnosed as depression and stress stemming from his job responsibilities.

In sentencing, Coxhead was given a three-year community order, which includes mandatory attendance at a sex offender treatment program. Additionally, he is required to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for five years and is subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order for the same duration. This order grants police the authority to examine his computer at any time during the five-year period.

Patrick Palmer, Coxhead’s barrister, expressed remorse on his behalf, stating, “He accepts he will never be able to work anywhere near children again. He bitterly regrets it.” The council responded swiftly to the allegations, with a spokesperson confirming that Coxhead was suspended immediately upon discovery of the allegations and was subsequently dismissed following the council’s employment procedures.

A representative from East Riding Council emphasized their commitment to child protection, stating, “Protection of children and young people remains our top priority. The local authority co-operated fully with the police during their investigation of this case.” They also highlighted that a confidential helpline has been established for anyone with concerns related to this incident, available at (01482) 392039.