KENNETH ARNOLD FROM SKELMERSDALE SENTENCED FOR CHILD INDECENT IMAGES AND EXTREME PORNOGRAPHY

In a case that has shocked the local community of Skelmersdale, Kenneth Arnold, a 62-year-old resident of Low Croft, was found guilty of possessing indecent images of children as well as extreme pornographic material. The incident came to light following a police raid on Arnold’s home on August 29 of the previous year, during which officers seized his personal computer for investigation.

Upon forensic analysis, the computer was discovered to contain a total of 48 illicit images. Of these, 44 were classified as indecent images of children, predominantly falling into the lowest category of severity, indicating less extreme but nonetheless illegal content. Additionally, four images depicted extreme pornography involving animals, which is considered a serious offence due to its nature.

Prosecutor Ken Grant outlined the details of the case in court, emphasizing the gravity of the offences. Arnold was charged with three counts of making indecent images and one count of possessing extreme pornographic material. The court heard that the images involved harm and distress to the victims, and that such material fuels a harmful industry that exploits vulnerable individuals.

Judge Andrew Menary, QC, addressed Arnold directly during sentencing, stating, “You must appreciate offences of this type are always regarded as serious particularly offences in relation to children. They will have involved someone at some stage taking images of a child, causing harm and distress. What you were doing fuels that type of industry and that is why it is always regarded as a serious offence.”

As part of his sentence, Arnold received a 12-month community order, which includes 30 days of rehabilitation activities aimed at addressing underlying issues. Furthermore, he was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for a period of five years and was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that restricts his internet access for the same duration. The judge acknowledged Arnold’s recent difficulties, including health problems and loss of employment, which he said contributed to his offending behavior.

In conclusion, Arnold’s guilty plea and the circumstances surrounding his case were taken into account during sentencing, reflecting the serious nature of his crimes and the ongoing threat posed by such offences to the community of Skelmersdale.