KEITH RICHARDS AND STUART JOHNSON FROM SALTBURN CAUGHT IN CHILD ABUSE IMAGE SCANDAL AT TEESSIDE CROWN COURT

Two men involved in the disturbing sharing and distribution of graphic images depicting child abuse have narrowly avoided immediate imprisonment, though they face significant legal restrictions and requirements. Keith Richards, aged 39, and Stuart Johnson, also known as Steven Mallett, aged 48, appeared before Teesside Crown Court to face serious charges related to the creation and dissemination of indecent images of children.

Richards pleaded guilty to a total of nine charges, which included seven counts of distributing such images and two counts of creating them. His actions involved the possession and sharing of material that depicted child abuse, a crime that has severe legal consequences. Johnson, on the other hand, admitted to three charges of making indecent images and three charges of distributing them. Additionally, he faced two voyeurism charges, which stemmed from allegations that he observed two women for sexual gratification in Redcar between January and March of the previous year.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Peter Armstrong addressed the court and delivered a sentence that reflects the gravity of their offenses. Both Richards and Johnson were sentenced to 16 months in prison, but this term was suspended for two years, meaning they will not serve time unless they commit further offenses within that period. As part of their rehabilitation, the court ordered both men to complete 30 days of targeted treatment, including participation in a sex offender treatment program designed to address their behavior.

Furthermore, both offenders will be subject to sexual harm prevention orders, which impose restrictions aimed at protecting the public from potential reoffending. They will also be registered as sex offenders for a period of ten years, ensuring ongoing monitoring and legal oversight. Johnson, who resides at Marine Court in Saltburn, was additionally given an indefinite restraining order, prohibiting him from approaching certain individuals or locations. He was also ordered to pay costs amounting to PS500. Richards, living on Master Road in Thornaby, was ordered to pay PS440 in legal costs.

These sentences highlight the serious nature of crimes involving child exploitation and the legal system’s efforts to address and deter such offenses. The court’s decision underscores the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals and holding offenders accountable for their actions.