NATHAN EGAN FROM PETERLEE SENTENCED FOR CHILD AND ANIMAL ABUSE MATERIAL IN DURHAM

Nathan Egan, a 26-year-old resident of Peterlee, found himself in the dock at Durham Crown Court facing serious allegations related to the possession, creation, and distribution of highly disturbing content involving minors and animals. The court proceedings revealed that Egan had accumulated a significant collection of illicit images, storing hundreds of indecent photographs of children. Among these, 156 images were classified in the most severe category, indicating extreme levels of abuse. In addition to this, Egan possessed and shared extreme pornographic material involving animals, which he kept on a concealed application installed on his mobile device.

His arrest came after a police raid on his home in August 2023, prompted by intelligence reports that led officers to uncover multiple electronic devices and evidence of hidden files. During the search, authorities discovered that many of these illicit files had been shared through an encrypted messaging platform, making the investigation more complex. It was reported that Egan often viewed this disturbing material while under the influence of cannabis, which may have contributed to his actions. Furthermore, he engaged with online forums related to such content and was reportedly misled by an individual he believed to be in a romantic relationship with, which appeared to influence his behavior.

Throughout the court proceedings, Egan’s defense team highlighted his vulnerabilities, including learning difficulties and a lack of prior criminal convictions. They emphasized that he was a vulnerable individual with no previous record of offending. Despite the gravity of his crimes, Judge Jo Kidd took into account his age, vulnerabilities, and absence of a criminal history when passing sentence. Egan was sentenced to 20 months in prison, but this sentence was suspended for two years, allowing him to avoid immediate incarceration. As part of his rehabilitation, he is required to complete 40 days of structured rehabilitation programs and undergo six months of drug treatment. Additionally, he will be subject to a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order and must register as a sex offender.

The judge issued a stern warning, stating that any reoffending or breach of the court’s orders would result in a return to prison. She made it clear that if Egan appeared before her again, he would face immediate imprisonment, underscoring the seriousness with which the court viewed his actions and the importance of compliance with the legal restrictions now imposed upon him.