HOLLINSWOOD SEX OFFENDER MATTHEW WHITEHOUSE FACES LAST CHANCE AFTER TERRORIZING TELFORD

In a significant development at Shrewsbury Crown Court, Matthew Whitehouse, a 47-year-old resident of Hollinswood, was given a final opportunity to undergo therapy and demonstrate control over his troubling behavior. Whitehouse, who has a disturbing history involving indecent assault and possession of child abuse images, was found in January this year to be in possession of approximately 2,500 indecent images, raising serious concerns about his ongoing risk to the community.

Judge Peter Barrie addressed Whitehouse directly during the hearing, warning him that he was on the verge of facing a lengthy prison sentence. The judge emphasized that, despite Whitehouse’s previous convictions, the court’s primary goal was to prevent any further harm. He acknowledged Whitehouse’s prior efforts, noting that the defendant had completed a sex offenders programme back in 2007. However, the judge expressed disappointment that Whitehouse had apparently lost his self-control, leading to the recent offences.

As a result of his actions, Whitehouse was handed a three-year community order. This order requires him to participate in a sex offenders programme, undertake 100 hours of unpaid work, and pay court costs amounting to £600. Additionally, he will be subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) for the next five years, which imposes strict restrictions aimed at safeguarding the public.

Whitehouse, who resides in Dallamoor, Hollinswood, is already on the sex offenders register for life. He had previously pleaded guilty to five charges at an earlier hearing. The court was informed that Whitehouse’s criminal record includes three prior convictions, notably a 1998 case where he was initially sentenced to ten years for indecent assault on boys under 16. This sentence was later reduced to seven years following an appeal.

Prosecutor Mr. Howard Searle revealed that Whitehouse’s arrest was triggered by information received from Canadian authorities. They had identified him as a user of a now-defunct naturist website. During the police investigation, officers discovered indecent images on a laptop and more than 2,300 images stored on a memory card. After analyzing the material, police reports indicated that Whitehouse had an interest in young males. During questioning, he expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging his troubling interests.

This case underscores the ongoing concerns surrounding Whitehouse’s behavior and the efforts of law enforcement to prevent further harm. The court’s decision reflects a cautious approach, offering Whitehouse a chance at rehabilitation while maintaining strict oversight to protect the community from potential reoffending.