JOSEPH MCGEE FROM NEWTOWNARDS LIVING AND WORKING AT MOUNT STEWART DESPITE CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CONVICTION

Joseph McGee, aged 35, who is employed as a live-in assistant at the prestigious Mount Stewart estate in County Down, has become the subject of serious concern following his criminal conviction related to child exploitation images. Despite his legal troubles, McGee continues to reside and work on the estate, as confirmed by local residents in Newtownards. When contacted by Sunday Life, McGee did not respond to inquiries at his residence on Mount Stewart Road, but neighbours verified that he has been seen living and working on the property recently.

His presence on the estate raises questions about the effectiveness of the measures taken following his conviction. McGee was sentenced at Downpatrick Crown Court in November after pleading guilty to 11 separate charges, including possession of over 200 indecent images of children, distribution of an indecent video, and possession of prohibited images of minors. The court was informed that he had committed these offences, which are considered serious violations of child protection laws.

Judge Geoffrey Miller issued a stern warning to McGee, emphasizing that he would be under close supervision throughout his probation period. As part of his sentence, McGee was ordered to complete 80 hours of community service and was placed on a two-year probation period. Additionally, he was subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order that will remain in effect for five years, and he is required to register as a sex offender.

During the sentencing, a character reference was provided by Lady Rose Lauritzen, who expressed her faith in McGee. She attributed her support to her personal grief over her father's death, her feelings of loneliness, and her struggles with alcohol. Despite her positive remarks, the court's focus remained on the gravity of McGee’s offences and the ongoing risk he poses to the community.

Local residents and authorities are now faced with the challenge of ensuring that McGee’s presence on the estate does not pose a further threat, given the nature of his crimes and the conditions of his release. The case highlights ongoing concerns about monitoring convicted sex offenders and the adequacy of community safeguards in place to protect vulnerable populations in the Newtownards area.