LIAM MACKAY AND SHOCKING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CRIME IN DINGWALL

The recent sentencing of Liam Mackay, a 31-year-old resident of Deas Avenue in Dingwall, has brought a stark reminder that the internet is not a safe hideout for those involved in child exploitation. This case underscores the seriousness of online child abuse and the significant legal repercussions faced by those guilty of such crimes.

Mackay was found guilty of possessing and downloading a large quantity of disturbing indecent images and videos depicting children aged between two and twelve years old. His criminal activities came to light after police carried out a meticulous operation at his home in Dingwall, during which electronic devices were seized for analysis. The investigation uncovered thousands of illicit files, leading directly to Mackay’s arrest.

The authorities’ reaction to this case emphasizes that there is a common misconception among some individuals that using the internet can provide complete anonymity for criminal activity. Detective Chief Inspector Richard Banks of Police Scotland's National Child Abuse Investigation Unit highlighted this point, stating, “There is a misunderstanding by some that the internet provides anonymity. Mackay’s arrest demonstrates otherwise, showing that no matter what measures are taken to avoid detection, hiding behind a computer is impossible.”

The police reaffirmed their commitment to combating child sexual abuse in all its forms, working in partnership to ensure offenders are brought to justice. Detective Banks further urged the public to stay vigilant, stating, “Any form of child sexual abuse is a serious criminal offense and a priority for Police Scotland. I would urge anyone with concerns about a child at risk of abuse or a potential victim to contact us immediately.”

In court, it was revealed that Mackay had previous convictions related to similar offenses, including a sexual contact offense involving a 14-year-old girl, as well as previous instances of possessing child pornography. Shockingly, his latest offense occurred while he was still under supervised community orders for earlier crimes. It was also disclosed that he had downloaded child pornography while under supervision before.

The investigation that led to Mackay’s conviction was initiated on May 7, 2020, when officers executed a warrant at his Dingwall residence. During their search, they discovered a USB stick concealed inside the hollow leg of his bed. A preliminary review of the device uncovered disturbing images of children being abused, aged between two and twelve years.

Forensic analysis further detailed the extent of the material found on the device. A total of 2,180 still images and 315 videos were recovered, categorized into three levels of obscenity, with the highest, labeled 'A', comprising 308 images and 171 videos. The second category, 'B', contained 511 images and 107 videos, while the third category, 'C', included 1,361 images and 37 videos. These files were created over a period from March to December 2019.

Mackay admitted to downloading these indecent images and videos, which collectively had a playtime totaling one day, six hours, three minutes, and one second. His actions not only violated his previous court orders but also demonstrated a continued pattern of offending against minors.

The court ultimately sentenced Liam Mackay to 22 months in prison, followed by a 30-month period on license. Additionally, he has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the potential risk he poses to society.