LEE BURNETT FROM FRASERBURGH CAUGHT WITH SHOCKING CHILD ABUSE IMAGES AND VIDEOS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Fraserburgh, Lee Burnett, aged 32, was found in possession of an extensive collection of illicit images and videos depicting sadistic child abuse. The incident came to light in June 2022, when authorities uncovered the disturbing material during a police operation aimed at tackling online child exploitation.

According to reports, Burnett claimed that he did not intentionally seek out these vile images. Instead, he argued that he had received them through the messaging application Kik, which he used to communicate with others. Despite his assertions, the evidence against him was overwhelming. Burnett initially deleted hundreds of the images, but later chose to ignore subsequent messages, raising suspicion about his involvement.

Police executed a search warrant at Burnett’s residence on Rowan Place in Fraserburgh at approximately 9 a.m. on April 16 of the previous year. The operation was initiated after receiving intelligence indicating his possible involvement in the possession and distribution of child abuse material. During the systematic search, officers recovered a Samsung phone and a black tablet, which were subsequently examined for evidence.

The investigation revealed a horrifying collection of images. A total of 686 images classified as Category A, the most severe level of abuse material, were discovered. Additionally, there were 571 Category B images and 218 Category C images. The images depicted children ranging from infants to 15-year-olds engaged in sexual acts, including some involving sadistic sexual violence. The videos, which had a combined duration of nearly two hours and 20 minutes, showed children between the ages of 2 and 14 involved in sexual activities with adults, some of which were sadistic in nature.

Further examination of the tablet uncovered a Kik account linked to Burnett. This account contained conversations with other users concerning indecent images of children, and evidence showed that such images had been shared over the platform. The police findings painted a clear picture of Burnett’s involvement in the distribution and possession of child abuse material.

Burnett, who resides on Rowan Place in Fraserburgh, pleaded guilty to charges of taking, permitting to be taken, or making indecent images of children, including pseudo-images, between January 5 and April 8 of the previous year. His plea was accepted by the court, which considered the severity of the offences.

In sentencing, the sheriff opted for a non-custodial approach, imposing a supervision order for three years. Additionally, Burnett was ordered to complete 140 hours of unpaid work and participate in the 'Moving Forward, Making Changes' programme. The court also mandated that Burnett comply with the notification requirements under the Sexual Offences Act, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities to protect the community from potential harm.