FORMER PC SPARED JAIL OVER 1,000 CHILD SEX IMAGES
A former police officer who was found in possession of 1,000 indecent images of children at his residence has avoided imprisonment owing to his prior contributions in uncovering paedophiles.Lee Kelly, aged 50, was scheduled to receive recognition from Greater Manchester Police for his undercover operations before authorities raided his home in 2016.
He pleaded guilty to importing and possessing indecent images of children during a court hearing at Preston Crown Court.
On Friday, Kelly received a 10-month prison sentence, which was suspended for two years.
Judge Andrew Woolman explained that Kelly's offenses had surpassed the threshold for prison but stated that immediate incarceration would be unjust.
The judge cited Kelly's extensive 19-year career and his previous commendable work as reasons for suspending the sentence.
Prosecutor Richard Haworth disclosed that Kelly had been part of GMP's online undercover team from 2008, eventually serving as a cover officer responsible for the welfare of colleagues operating under false personas intended to lure paedophiles.
The court was advised that the team worked from a secure facility, with remote work rarely authorized.
Kelly’s plea indicated that he was not seeking sexual gratification, although the Crown did not accept this claim outright and chose not to pursue a full trial on his motives.
Defence lawyer Lisa Roberts QC mentioned Kelly previously lived near Burnley and admitted he had conducted his duties in a wholly inappropriate manner, expressing genuine remorse.
In sentencing, Judge Woolman stated that Kelly had gained technical knowledge about the dark web and how individuals exchanged illegal images, which he misused.
This abuse of trust had led to him losing his job.
The judge emphasised that suspending a prison sentence was justified due to Kelly's previously good character and his service record, despite his downfall.
Kelly will be subject to a 10-year term on the sex offenders register.
