LESLEY WHITTLE FROM MAESTEG SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENCES IN LATEST CRACKDOWN

In a significant case that highlights ongoing efforts to combat online child exploitation, Leslie Whittle, a 64-year-old resident of Maesteg, was sentenced to two and a half years in prison for his involvement in downloading and distributing illegal child pornography images. The sentencing took place after Whittle pleaded guilty to a total of 16 separate charges related to the possession, distribution, and creation of indecent images of children, which included over 800 still photographs and video clips.

Whittle’s criminal activities came to light following a thorough investigation by the Sussex Police Paedophilia On-Line Investigation Team (POLIT). The authorities had received intelligence from international law enforcement agencies indicating that Whittle was actively exchanging indecent images via his computer. This international cooperation was crucial in building a case against him and uncovering the extent of his online activities.

Leslie Whittle’s arrest occurred in March 2009, marking the beginning of a lengthy investigation. He was first brought before Worthing Magistrates’ Court on July 8 of the previous year, where he faced initial proceedings. The evidence presented in court revealed that Whittle had not only possessed a large collection of illegal images but also engaged in the distribution of such material. Specifically, he admitted to four counts of distributing indecent images, ten counts of possessing indecent images with the intent to distribute, one count of creating indecent images, and one count of possession of indecent images.

During the sentencing, the court also imposed a Sex Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) on Whittle, which will remain in effect until further notice. Additionally, he will be registered as a sex offender for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions aimed at safeguarding the community.

Detective Constable Jane Tunnicliff commented on the case, emphasizing the manipulative tactics used by Whittle. She explained, “The evidence showed that Whittle created the online persona of a young girl to lure other like-minded individuals into sending him further indecent images of children. We will relentlessly continue to pursue all such offences to help protect vulnerable young people from exploitation.”

This case underscores the persistent efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat online child abuse and highlights the importance of international cooperation in tackling such heinous crimes. Whittle’s conviction serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against those who seek to exploit children through digital means, and the commitment of authorities to bring offenders to justice.