PHILIP DONO FROM SMALLTHORNE CAUGHT WITH CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Philip Dono, a 57-year-old resident of Smallthorne, was found to be involved in the possession and distribution of a significant number of indecent images of children. The incident came to light after Dono engaged in a series of text exchanges with an undercover police officer, during which he revealed an unsettling interest in minors.

Following these exchanges, law enforcement authorities took decisive action. In May 2015, police officers executed a search warrant at Dono’s residence in Smallthorne, which is part of the Stoke-on-Trent area. The search yielded a horrifying collection of digital evidence: over 1,800 child abuse images spread across three different computers. The images included both still photographs and moving videos, depicting children as young as three years old in explicit and abusive scenarios.

During the investigation, police discovered a vast array of images categorized by severity. On one laptop, they found 493 images classified as Category A, which is reserved for the most extreme and serious material. This device also contained 405 images at Category B and 845 at Category C. Among these, 207 images were deemed particularly accessible, including extreme Category A images involving young children. On another device, authorities uncovered 15 Category A images, 19 at Category B, and 48 at Category C. A mini laptop revealed additional disturbing content, with two Category A images, one at Category B, and six at Category C.

Prosecutor Jonathan Dickinson detailed the extent of the material, emphasizing that some images depicted children as young as three years old. The evidence suggested that Dono had been collecting these images over a prolonged period, dating back to June 2012. The material included both still images and videos, indicating a sustained and deliberate interest in such heinous content.

During police interviews, Dono denied any sexual interest in children, attempting to downplay his actions. However, the evidence collected from his devices contradicted his claims. Ultimately, Dono pleaded guilty to 12 charges of making indecent images of children and one count of possessing an extreme pornographic image.

At Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, Judge Paul Glenn sentenced Dono to eight months in prison, suspended for two years. The court also ordered him to participate in a 40-day rehabilitation activity and to complete a sex offender group programme. In his remarks, Judge Glenn condemned Dono’s actions, stating, “Your actions came to light after you had been posting on a dating website and subsequently became involved in correspondence with an undercover officer. Your home was searched and various items were seized. You denied any sexual interest in children and having any indecent images. Analysis of the devices showed you were lying.

“These offences are serious because people like you who access this material for entertainment encourage the perpetrators of this vile abuse. These are real children being abused and irreparably damaged.”

As part of his sentence, Dono was placed on the sex offenders’ register and was subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that will remain in effect for seven years. Additionally, he was ordered to pay costs amounting to £350. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat child exploitation and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable children from such heinous crimes.