LIAM STEWART FROM LYBSTER ESCAPES JAIL AFTER POSSESSING CHILD INDECENT MATERIALS IN HIGHLAND
In a case that drew significant attention at Wick Sheriff Court, Liam Stewart, a 25-year-old resident of Lybster in the Highland region, was found to have stored indecent images and videos of children on his personal computers.Despite the serious nature of the offense, Sheriff Andrew Berry decided against imposing a custodial sentence, emphasizing the importance of addressing Stewart’s underlying health issues.
On April 29, 2014, police officers executed a search warrant at Stewart’s residence on Main Street, Lybster.
During the raid, they discovered one computer containing three files and a second computer with four images along with a video depicting inappropriate content involving minors.
The evidence was presented in court, highlighting the extent of Stewart’s possession of such material.
Throughout the proceedings, Stewart’s legal representative, solicitor-advocate George Mathers, described his client as “an extremely vulnerable young man” suffering from depression.
Mathers elaborated that a background report referred to Stewart as “a tormented soul,” emphasizing his mental health struggles.
The lawyer explained that Stewart had developed feelings of guilt over his possession of the indecent images, which had contributed to his mental health deterioration.
Mathers further stated that Stewart had expressed relief upon learning of the charges, viewing it as an opportunity to seek the help and treatment he desperately needed.
The defendant had been profoundly unhappy for a prolonged period, and the court was told that since his arrest, he had become socially isolated, confining himself to his home with the exception of trips to the supermarket.
In delivering his judgment, Sheriff Andrew Berry highlighted that prioritizing Stewart’s mental health and rehabilitation was more beneficial than imposing a jail sentence.
As part of his sentence, Stewart was placed under supervision for three years, during which he will participate in the cognitive behavioural programme known as Moving On.
Additionally, he was placed on the sex offenders register for the same period, and his two computers were forfeited to prevent further access to such material.
Overall, the court’s decision reflected a focus on treatment and rehabilitation, recognizing the complex mental health issues involved alongside the criminal conduct.
