RICHARD STRETTON FROM DESBOROUGH ESCAPES JAIL AFTER PAEDOPHILE CHARGES IN NORTHAMPTON

In a case that has drawn significant attention, Richard Stretton, a 63-year-old resident of Desborough, appeared before Northampton Crown Court on Friday, June 18, 2021, to face serious allegations related to the possession and distribution of indecent images of children. The proceedings followed an investigation that uncovered disturbing evidence of his involvement in sharing illicit material involving minors.

Authorities had been alerted through intelligence reports indicating that Stretton was actively sharing indecent images of children. Acting on this information, police officers executed a search warrant at his residence on Leys Avenue, Desborough, on November 3, 2017. During the raid, they confiscated his computers and other electronic devices, which were later examined in detail. The forensic analysis revealed that Stretton had downloaded numerous indecent images between May 2015 and the day before his arrest, indicating a prolonged period of illicit activity.

Further investigation uncovered a hard drive containing a collection of indecent images of children, along with several files that had been shared online. Police also discovered a Skype account established in 2013, which contained chat logs discussing incestuous acts involving a child who was identified as a Year Nine pupil. Additionally, there were conversations with another individual born in May 1998, which meant that at the time of the chats, the person was a minor.

Stretton faced multiple charges, including four counts of making indecent images and videos of children, as well as two counts of distributing such material. The court heard the details of these charges during the hearing, emphasizing the severity of the case. Despite the gravity of the offences, the court was also informed of the significant delay in bringing the case to sentencing, with a three-year gap between his arrest and his appearance in court.

Judge Mayo addressed the court and expressed his concern over the delay, stating, “I express my considerable concern that there was a three-year delay between your arrest and you attending this court to be sentenced. It’s completely unacceptable for everybody, and as a result of the delay and what’s happened to you and your family, I see no reason to impose immediate custody.” The judge also noted that the circumstances suggested Stretton had learned from his actions, referencing the pre-sentence report.

In light of these factors, the judge decided against immediate imprisonment. Instead, Richard Stretton was sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for two years. He was also ordered to pay costs amounting to £450. Additionally, he was subjected to a seven-year sexual harm prevention order and mandated to complete a 30-day rehabilitation program aimed at addressing his behavior and preventing future offending.