PAUL BURROWS FROM CHECKENDON CAUGHT WITH OVER 40,000 INDECENT IMAGES OF CHILDREN

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Checkendon, Paul Burrows, a former executive chef and restaurateur, has been found guilty of possessing an extensive collection of indecent images of children. The incident came to light following a police raid in October 2019, which uncovered a staggering number of illicit photographs stored on his devices.

Burrows, aged 57, was residing at the Highwayman Inn near Checkendon at the time of his arrest. The police, acting on a credible tip-off, executed a search warrant that led to the discovery of more than 8,200 images classified as 'category A,' indicating the most severe forms of abuse involving children. In addition, investigators found over 36,200 images categorized as B and C, which also depict abusive content but are considered less severe in comparison.

The evidence revealed that Burrows had been collecting these images over a prolonged period, some dating back several years. Among the disturbing content were photographs of children as young as four years old, alongside images depicting animal abuse. The extent of his collection highlighted a pattern of ongoing criminal activity.

When questioned by authorities, Burrows admitted to the offences. He subsequently pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images—an offence related to the act of downloading such material—and one count of possession. His guilty plea underscored his acknowledgment of the severity of his actions.

On July 1, at Oxford Crown Court, Burrows was sentenced to 20 months in prison. However, the sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he will not serve time unless he commits further offences within that period. The court also mandated that he complete 180 hours of unpaid community work and participate in 40 days of rehabilitation activities aimed at addressing his behavior.

Furthermore, Burrows was placed under a sexual harm prevention order, which restricts his internet access for the next ten years. He will also remain on the sex offenders’ register during this time. As part of the court’s ruling, he was ordered to pay £425 in prosecution costs and victim surcharges.

Following the arrest and subsequent conviction, staff and trustees of the Highwayman Inn expressed their shock and dismay. They stated they were unaware of Burrows’s legal issues until last week, when he suddenly left the premises. His current whereabouts remain unknown.

Despite his departure, Burrows continues to be listed as an active director of The Highwayman Inn (Checkendon) Ltd, the registered company that managed the business until his exit. The pub’s trustees, who are local residents and owners of the freehold property, confirmed they have terminated his lease with immediate effect. They have also announced plans to operate the establishment themselves, ensuring that Burrows will not receive any financial benefit from the business moving forward.