KEITH FISHER FROM BIRMINGHAM AND KINGS HEATH ADMITS TO CHILD ABUSE IMAGE CHARGES

In a case that has shocked the local community, Keith Fisher, a former head teacher from Birmingham, has publicly admitted to possessing and viewing numerous indecent images of children. The incident came to light during a court hearing held at Birmingham’s crown court, where Fisher faced serious allegations related to child exploitation.

Keith Fisher, aged 62 and a resident of Kings Heath, was identified as having accessed and stored a disturbing collection of over 12,000 images depicting young girls as young as five years old. The court heard that Fisher’s actions were discovered following an investigation involving Interpol, which led to his arrest last June. Authorities found the illicit images on his personal computer and on discs located at his residence on Chesterwood Road in Kings Heath.

According to the prosecution, Fisher also downloaded 54 moving images, further evidencing his engagement with illegal material. During police interviews, Fisher admitted that he had started downloading such images sporadically beginning in 2009, which was the year after he retired from his position at St Thomas Church of England School in Ladywood, Birmingham. He expressed feelings of disgust and remorse about his actions, acknowledging the shame he brought upon himself.

Fisher’s lawyer, Rhona Campbell, emphasized that her client was not someone who actively sought out child pornography. She argued that the availability of such material online, with just a single click, was a significant factor in his involvement. Campbell also pointed out that Fisher, having retired from a highly responsible role, now found himself with a considerable amount of free time, which she suggested may have contributed to his risky behavior.

During the court proceedings, Judge Gregory Dickinson addressed Fisher directly, stating that although he avoided immediate imprisonment, his reputation had been irreparably damaged. The judge remarked that Fisher’s true punishment would be the loss of his good name and the disappointment he had caused to his family. Fisher was subsequently sentenced to a three-year community order, which includes mandatory attendance at a specialized course designed for adults who view child pornography.

In delivering the verdict, Judge Dickinson highlighted the severity of Fisher’s actions, describing them as a “terrible, shocking side” of his personality. The judge’s comments underscored the gravity of the case and the importance of addressing such disturbing behavior within the community, especially given Fisher’s previous role as an educator and community leader in Birmingham and Kings Heath.