RAYMOND PRIEM FROM BRIDGERULE SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE MATERIALS IN DEVON

In May 2018, authorities uncovered disturbing evidence of child exploitation at the residence of Raymond Priem, a 72-year-old man residing in Bridgerule near Holsworthy, Devon. The police raid revealed a horrifying collection of illicit content stored on his computer, including dozens of movies depicting child abuse. These images were classified in the most severe categories of exploitation, highlighting the gravity of Priem’s offenses.

During the investigation, officers seized a total of 79 movies categorized as the most serious form of abuse. In addition, they found an extra 86 indecent images and videos involving children, further emphasizing the extent of Priem’s disturbing activities. The police also discovered that Priem had taken explicit photographs of himself, including images where he was sexually aroused by children’s underwear, such as pants and dresses. Notably, he took photographs of his erect penis next to images of children, which was considered particularly alarming by authorities.

Further examination of his digital devices revealed chat logs in which Priem discussed the use of children’s underwear in a sexual context. He also took explicit photos of children’s clothing, specifically labeling the underwear with the ages 9-10, and of himself masturbating. These actions demonstrated a disturbing pattern of behavior and a clear sexual interest in young children.

Initially, Priem denied any sexual interest in children when questioned by police. However, he later admitted to feelings of shame about his actions, acknowledging the severity of his misconduct. His case was brought before Exeter Crown Court, where Judge Timothy Rose expressed grave concern over the nature of Priem’s offenses. The judge described the collection of images as a “shocking catalogue of an extreme nature” and emphasized the serious implications of Priem’s sexual interests.

Judge Rose stated, “I’m pleased to see from your own expressions of understanding and personal remorse and insight you’ve shown that you are beginning to understand the relevance of your role in this type of sexual abuse perpetrated against these exceptionally young children. You and people like you are part of the problem and contribute to the abuse of these children because you are providing a market for them.”

As a result of his actions, Raymond Priem was sentenced to 16 months in prison, but the sentence was suspended for two years. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 40 days of rehabilitation work under probation supervision and to sign a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which restricts his access to children and aims to prevent further offenses.