MICHAEL ROSS FROM THATCHAM AND LONDON JAILED FOR CHILD SEXUAL IMAGE OFFENSES

In a significant case highlighting the ongoing fight against online child exploitation, Michael Ross, a resident of Thatcham who later moved to London, has been sentenced to a total of three years in prison for his involvement in viewing and possessing indecent images of children. The conviction was secured at Reading Crown Court on Monday, November 14, following a detailed investigation into his criminal activities.

Ross, aged 50 and residing at Mill House, was identified and apprehended after authorities received a report from an individual who alerted the Thames Valley Police Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT) about his disturbing online behavior. The police investigation revealed that Ross had been viewing and making indecent images of children, which led to his arrest and subsequent charges.

Further scrutiny uncovered that Ross had violated the terms of a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) that had been imposed on him in 2009. This order was originally issued after Ross was convicted of making indecent images and inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity. The breach occurred when Ross failed to notify police of his change of address after relocating from Thatcham to London, which is a direct violation of the conditions set by the court.

On Wednesday, October 5, officers from POLIT executed a warrant at Ross’s London residence, leading to his arrest and immediate charging. During the court proceedings, Ross, who was previously known by the surname Akehurst, admitted to possessing and viewing Category A images—the most serious type of child sexual abuse material—as well as Category B and C images.

In sentencing, the judge imposed a series of concurrent and consecutive sentences. Ross received two years for the possession of Category A images, which are considered the most severe, along with one year for Category B images and eight months for Category C images. Additionally, he was sentenced to one year for breaching his SOPO, which will run consecutively to his other sentences, culminating in a total of three years of imprisonment.

The judge emphasized the seriousness of Ross’s actions, stating, “This case should serve as a warning to anyone who is engaging in this kind of criminal behaviour.” The court’s decision underscores the importance of safeguarding children from exploitation and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat online child abuse.