PHILIP ROYLE FROM ECCLESTON INVOLVED IN CHILD PORNOGRAPHY AND ONLINE FANTASIES IN CHORLEY

In November 2018, a disturbing case emerged involving Philip Royle, a man from Eccleston, who was accused of engaging in highly inappropriate and illegal online activities related to children. Royle, aged 38, was employed as a school caretaker at Balshaw Lane Primary School in Chorley, a position that placed him in close contact with young students. However, his actions extended far beyond his professional duties, as investigations revealed a pattern of disturbing online behavior.

Police authorities received crucial intelligence indicating that Royle was involved in sharing and uploading indecent images and engaging in explicit conversations on social media platforms. Specifically, on December 19, 2016, an image of an obscene nature was uploaded via Chatstep, a social media platform that promotes itself as a “free, private & beautiful group chat.” This image was traced back to Royle’s IP address, establishing a direct link to his internet connection. The discovery prompted further investigation into his online activities.

On October 16, 2017, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Royle’s residence on Beaconsfield Terrace in Chorley. Although Royle was not present at the time, police located him working at Balshaw Lane Community School and subsequently removed him from the premises. During the search, officers seized various computer equipment and storage devices. An analysis of the seized materials uncovered a total of 38 images depicting extreme and highly illegal content, categorized as Category A, B, and C, with some images classified as the most serious under law. Additionally, investigators found evidence of Royle engaging in obscene chats that discussed disturbing fantasies involving children.

Further legal proceedings revealed that Royle had been reported missing earlier in the year, raising concerns about his whereabouts and activities. He ultimately admitted to six counts of publishing obscene articles and making indecent images of children. His actions, which took place more than two years prior to his arrest, led to charges under the Obscene Publications Act 1959. Royle, who resides on Beaconsfield Terrace in Chorley, appeared before Preston Crown Court in September 2018, where he pleaded guilty to the charges. The court proceedings also included a plea of guilty to a count of making indecent images of children, with the date of the offense being on or before October 16, 2017.

Prior to this, Royle had appeared at Preston Magistrates’ Court in July, where he faced initial charges. The case was then committed to the higher court for a full trial. Royle’s sentencing was scheduled for October 10, and legal experts anticipate a significant penalty given the severity of the offenses.

In response to the allegations, Royle’s employer, Balshaw Lane Primary School, issued a statement to reassure parents and the community. Helen Gregson, the headteacher, emphasized that none of the evidence or conversations involved children attending the school. She stated, “I am aware that a member of staff has appeared in court. I’d like to make it clear that none of these alleged offences relate to pupils at our school. I can’t comment further as the matter is still subject to the legal process.” Royle remains suspended from his position pending the outcome of his sentencing and further legal proceedings.