HEATON KARATE COACH JORDAN MCCARTHY SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY IN NEWCASTLE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Jordan McCarthy, a karate coach based in Heaton, Newcastle, has been sentenced after authorities uncovered a significant collection of indecent images involving minors. The investigation into McCarthy’s activities began in October 2019 when police received intelligence suggesting that the 24-year-old was engaging in online conversations with an individual he believed to be a 14-year-old boy.

Unbeknownst to him, the person he was communicating with was actually a registered sex offender, who was already the subject of a separate police inquiry. This revelation added a complex layer to the case, highlighting the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat online grooming and child exploitation.

Following his arrest, law enforcement officers executed a search at McCarthy’s residence in Heaton, Newcastle. During the search, they confiscated a tablet and a mobile phone, which were subsequently examined. The devices contained a total of 109 indecent images of children, a discovery that played a crucial role in the case against him.

McCarthy was formally charged with attempting to engage in sexual communication with a minor and possession of indecent images of children. His arrest and subsequent charges led to immediate action within the community and the karate organization he was affiliated with. He was swiftly removed from his coaching position, and measures were taken to ensure the safety of the young people involved.

At Newcastle Crown Court, McCarthy appeared to face justice. He pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to a prison term of 10 months, which was suspended for two years. This means he will not serve time unless he commits another offence within that period. Additionally, the court imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) for seven years, restricting his activities and contact with minors. He was also placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for a decade, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct and compliance with legal restrictions.