WIGAN CHILD CARE OFFICER MATTHEW CUNNINGHAM CAUGHT WITH THOUSANDS OF CHILD EXPLOITATION IMAGES IN LIVERPOOL

A child care officer from Wigan has been found in possession of a large collection of child exploitation images, some of which are classified in the most severe category, as revealed during a court hearing at Liverpool Crown Court. Matthew Cunningham, aged 54, attempted to downplay the severity of his actions by referring to the material as ‘soft stuff,’ but the court found him guilty of possessing 122 images that fall into the highest category of child abuse material.

During the proceedings, the judge expressed strong disapproval of Cunningham’s dismissive attitude towards his offending, emphasizing the significant harm such images cause to victims and the potential danger posed by individuals like Cunningham who hold responsibilities related to child care. The court’s decision reflected the seriousness of the offense and the need to address the risks associated with such conduct.

As part of his sentence, Cunningham was given a six-month prison term, which was suspended for two years, meaning he will not serve time unless he commits another offense within that period. Additionally, he was placed under a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which imposes restrictions on his activities and movements, and he will be subject to police monitoring. The court also mandated that Cunningham attend therapy sessions aimed at addressing his behavior and preventing future offending.