JOHN ECKERSALL FROM TIMPERLEY ESCAPES JAIL AFTER NINE-YEAR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY SPREE IN MANCHESTER

In a case that has shocked the local community of Timperley and the wider Manchester area, John Eckersall, a 63-year-old man with a previously respectable background, was found guilty of possessing and downloading child pornography over a period of nearly nine years. The incident came to light after police investigations uncovered his extensive online activity, which included the illicit downloading of indecent images of children as young as six years old.

During the proceedings at Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court, it was revealed that Eckersall, a retired civil servant turned professional wedding photographer, had been engaging in these illegal activities while working from his home in Colbrook Road, Timperley, near Altrincham. The court was informed that he had pleaded guilty to 17 separate charges—11 related to the possession and downloading of indecent images of children, and six concerning the acquisition of extreme pornography involving adults.

Prosecutor Barrie Darby stated that police officers had visited Eckersall’s residence in May of the previous year, during which they seized his computer equipment. It was established that Eckersall had been paying to download videos using his credit card for almost nine years, indicating a long-standing pattern of illicit activity. The court was told that he had amassed a total of 147 images, all classified at the lowest level of seriousness, yet nonetheless deeply disturbing.

Throughout the court proceedings, Eckersall appeared visibly ashamed. It was noted that he had not yet disclosed his actions to his wife, adding a layer of personal turmoil to the case. Judge Jonathan Geake, presiding over the case, addressed Eckersall directly, remarking, “You have a long, decent hard working life behind you. All that is now forfeit. You are a married man with a family, and all of that is now in jeopardy. I understand you have yet to disclose this to your wife.”

In sentencing, the judge opted for a community order lasting three years, which includes participation in a treatment program aimed at addressing his behavior. Additionally, Eckersall will be required to register as a sex offender for a period of five years. The court’s decision reflects the serious nature of his offenses, despite the fact that he pleaded guilty and showed remorse.

Richard Littler, representing Eckersall, emphasized that his client had cooperated fully with police upon questioning. He described the case as stemming from an obsession and stressed that Eckersall was not proud of his actions, expressing that he was distraught and disgusted with himself. The defense also highlighted that Eckersall was found in possession of 147 images, all graded at the lowest level of seriousness, which the court acknowledged but still deemed serious enough to warrant significant consequences.