JONATHAN STOCK FROM HESKETH AND KEGWORTH JAILED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

In April 2003, a disturbing case emerged involving Dr. Jonathan Stock-Hesketh, a man with ties to the villages of Hesketh and Kegworth, who was found guilty of possessing and downloading child pornography from the internet. The conviction has led to severe repercussions, including his placement on the sex offenders' register and the imposition of a community rehabilitation order.

Dr. Stock-Hesketh, aged 54, had previously held positions as a university lecturer and a psychotherapist. His professional reputation was significantly tarnished following the discovery of his criminal activities. He had also been involved in religious duties, having preached at Emmanuel Church in Loughborough, but his ability to serve as a priest was revoked by the Bishop of Southwell, the Right Reverend George Cassidy.

The case came to light when police executed a raid on his residence at the University of Nottingham. During the search, authorities uncovered 38 images of child pornography stored on his computer. These images, which depicted young girls in disturbing and distressing scenarios, were described by the judge as particularly troubling during the sentencing hearing at Nottingham Crown Court.

In court, Stock-Hesketh pleaded guilty to four counts related to child pornography. The judge emphasized the severity of the images, condemning them as disturbing and distressing, and highlighted the serious nature of his crimes. As a result of his conviction, he was ordered to register as a sex offender and was given a community order aimed at rehabilitation.

Following his conviction, Dr. Stock-Hesketh resigned from his part-time role as a theology lecturer at the University of Nottingham and also stepped down from his position as a psychotherapist at the Berne Institute in Kegworth, Leicestershire. His previous involvement in religious activities was also terminated, with the Bishop of Southwell explicitly withdrawing his permission to serve as a priest.

The Bishop issued a statement expressing deep concern and sadness over the case, acknowledging the harm inflicted on children through such offenses. He emphasized that these crimes are not victimless and underscored the importance of maintaining high standards among those entrusted with public ministry within the Church of England. The Bishop reaffirmed the church’s commitment to protecting children and upholding trust in religious leadership, condemning the actions of Jonathan Stock-Hesketh as a grave breach of moral and ethical standards.