KEIGHLEY MAN ROGER STEVENS SENTENCED FOR DISTRIBUTING OVER 1,800 INDECENT IMAGES INVOLVING CHILDREN AND ANIMAL ABUSE
In a serious case that has shocked the community of Keighley, Roger Stevens, a 50-year-old resident of Long Lee Lane, was sentenced to 20 months in prison after being found guilty of possessing and distributing a vast collection of indecent images, some of which depicted children as young as three years old.The investigation uncovered that Stevens had accumulated more than 1,800 illicit images on his computer, a significant portion of which were classified as the most severe category, Category A, totaling 745 images.
Additionally, there were 298 images categorized as B and 761 as C, with the latter being the least severe.
The material included both still photographs and videos, illustrating the disturbing extent of his collection.
Bradford Crown Court heard that Stevens not only possessed these images but also actively shared them with others.
Evidence revealed that his computer was equipped with peer-to-peer file-sharing software, which facilitated the distribution of these illegal images.
On at least one occasion, Stevens had shared an indecent photograph with another individual involved in similar activities.
The court was informed that this act of sharing was part of a broader pattern of behavior, with the defendant’s actions encouraging others to indulge in similar offenses.
During the proceedings, Judge Robert Bartfield emphasized the gravity of the case.
He acknowledged the point made by Stevens’ legal representative, Stephen Wood, that the defendant’s distribution was limited to a single instance involving another person.
The judge noted, “You acquired from him, he acquired from you.
To that extent, you would be encouraging this person to indulge in these offences.” Further disturbing evidence was presented regarding the extreme nature of some images found on Stevens’ computer.
These included graphic depictions of sexual acts involving animals and objects, which are considered particularly heinous and are not related to children.
The court was told that Stevens made no comment when arrested but later admitted to the offences during questioning.
Judge Bartfield highlighted the disturbing nature of the images, especially considering the ages of the children involved, which ranged from three or four up to fifteen years old.
The volume of material was substantial, with many of the images being videos, indicating a significant level of engagement with this illegal content.
The court also noted that Stevens had taken steps to conceal his activities, including attempting to mask his identity to avoid detection.
Despite the seriousness of the offences, the judge acknowledged that Stevens had shown some remorse and had begun to address his issues.
He had participated in the Safer Lives Programme and appeared to have gained some insight into the severity of his actions.
The court considered his previous good character and the fact that many years had passed since the offences.
Judge Bartfield stated, “You have taken steps to address what you recognise to be your addiction to porn of this kind.
You have genuine regret and remorse and are a person of previous good character.
I recognise you were leading a rather lonely and sad existence at the time.” Nevertheless, the judge made it clear that the harm caused to the victims—both physically and psychologically—was irreparable.
The court emphasized that no mitigation could lessen the pain inflicted on the children depicted in the images.
Stevens pleaded guilty to charges of making, possessing, and distributing indecent photographs, as well as possessing extreme pornographic images involving animals and objects.
His sentencing reflects the seriousness with which the court views such offences, and the community of Keighley will be left to grapple with the implications of this disturbing case.
