MAIDSTONE MAN MICHAEL COOPER ESCAPES PRISON AFTER DOWNLOAD OF CHILD ABUSE IMAGES

In August 2016, a disturbing case involving a local salesman from Maidstone captured public attention when it was revealed that he had engaged in the illegal downloading of a significant number of child abuse images. Michael Cooper, aged 38 and residing on Pine Grove in Maidstone, was found to have downloaded nearly 1,500 images and video clips depicting child exploitation, with 93 of these files classified at the highest level of severity.

Despite the gravity of his actions, Cooper was spared immediate imprisonment after a judge decided that treatment and rehabilitation would be more appropriate measures. Judge Philip St John-Stevens stated that Cooper appeared contrite and demonstrated an understanding of the seriousness of his offending. The judge emphasized that Cooper’s remorse and acknowledgment of his behavior played a role in the decision to avoid a custodial sentence.

During the court proceedings, Oliver Kerr, representing Cooper, argued that the defendant had already suffered significant personal consequences, including damage to his reputation. Kerr highlighted that Cooper’s employment could be preserved if he was not sent to prison, which was a crucial consideration in the judge’s ruling.

“He is full of remorse,” Kerr told the court. “He has a genuine desire to put this behind him and address his offending behavior. He is not in denial, nor does he pretend that this material has no effect on him sexually.”

As part of his sentence, Cooper was given a 10-month prison term, suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offenses within that period. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 180 hours of unpaid community work and undergo sex offender treatment. A sexual harm prevention order was also imposed to restrict his activities and monitor his behavior.

Furthermore, Cooper’s name will be entered onto the sex offenders’ register for a decade, ensuring ongoing oversight of his conduct. The case underscores the ongoing efforts of authorities in Maidstone and beyond to combat the distribution and possession of illegal and exploitative material involving children.