PAUL KELLY FROM BURSLEM SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IMAGE DOWNLOADS

In November 2018, Paul Kelly, a resident of Burslem, was handed a prison sentence after a lengthy investigation into his possession and distribution of indecent images of children. The case came to light when police executed a search warrant at Kelly’s residence on Moorland Road, Burslem, leading to the seizure of his laptop, mobile phone, and several CDs. These items were subsequently examined by forensic experts, revealing a disturbing collection of images stored on his devices.

The investigation uncovered that Kelly had been involved in this illicit activity over a span of more than a decade, from March 3, 2005, to August 17, 2017. The images found were classified as Category A, which is considered the most severe level of child abuse material. Police also discovered that Kelly had used explicit search terms, including “pre teen,” indicating a disturbing interest in very young children.

Kelly, aged 56, admitted to three charges of making indecent photographs of children and possession of a prohibited image. His plea was entered in court, and the case was heard by Recorder Rebecca Herbert. During the proceedings, she emphasized the gravity of the material found on Kelly’s devices, describing it as “absolutely appalling.” She stated that some of the images depicted very young children being subjected to sexual abuse, including acts of rape.

In her sentencing remarks, Recorder Herbert made it clear that only an immediate prison sentence could be justified given the severity of the crimes. Kelly was subsequently sentenced to eight months in prison, reflecting the serious nature of his offenses and the need for justice for the victims involved.