PETER HUNT IN BRIDLINGTON AVOIDS JAIL AFTER CANNABIS FARM AND CHILD PORN DISCOVERIES

In October 2017, Peter Hunt, 61, from Bridlington, was involved in a series of criminal activities that led to significant legal consequences but avoided immediate imprisonment.

Hunt was found to have concealed a cannabis cultivation operation within the Old Mobility Shop. Police officers, upon searching the premises, discovered eight cannabis plants. During a subsequent search at Hunt’s home on Danes Croft, officers uncovered more than 40 additional cannabis plants, along with a tent containing specialist equipment used to grow the drugs. Overall, police seized nearly 2 kilograms of cannabis, with a street value estimated up to £30,000.

Initially, Hunt attempted to prevent police entry to the shop, demanding a search warrant. However, a strong smell of cannabis led to his arrest. Prosecutors informed Hull Crown Court that the investigation expanded to Hunt’s home, where police found 43 more plants stored in sheds.

The investigation took a disturbing turn when authorities uncovered a large collection of indecent images on Hunt’s seized mobile phone. Prosecutors explained, “The indecent image charges came as a result of the investigation into the drugs.” Though no evidence of drug dealing was found on the phone, investigators discovered a vast number of images of children—specifically, 699 Category A images, 494 Category B images, and 741 Category C images.

Police raided the Beck Hill store in Bridlington on February 10. Hunt, of Danes Croft in Bridlington, appeared at Hull Crown Court where he pleaded guilty to charges of producing cannabis and possessing indecent images of children.

During the sentencing, Mr. Recorder McKone commented: “Your motivation was not only for your own misuse but also to pay off significant debt. When police seized your mobile phone to investigate drug dealing, they found a large number of indecent images of children. Category A images show children essentially being raped—every time it is downloaded and watched, it encourages further abuse.”

Hunt received a 23-month prison sentence, which was suspended for two years. He was also ordered to complete 31 sessions of the Horizon sexual offence programme, along with 25 days of rehabilitation requirements through the Probation Service. Additionally, a sexual harm prevention order was imposed on him to restrict future offences.