PROLIFIC SEX OFFENDER GIVEN 20 YEAR SENTENCE
Ryan Alden was sentenced to 14 years in prison at Basildon Crown Court after a detailed and thorough investigation into his criminal activities.The investigation began following reports that Alden, residing on Stonehill Road in Leigh, had accessed images of children engaged in indecent acts.
In December 2021, authorities executed a search warrant and seized electronic devices.
Examination of these devices uncovered thousands of indecent images and videos of minors, along with evidence of online abuse involving social media and children.
Further inquiries showed that the 36-year-old had recorded women and children without their consent.
Additionally, he concealed a camera within trousers fitted with buttons.
Officers from the Police Online Investigation Team (POLIT) reviewed numerous videos and images of minors stored on his devices.
During police interviews, Alden refused to comment on many questions but admitted to owning the devices and using multiple identities to communicate with children over an extended period.
The investigation team worked diligently to gather and secure sufficient evidence to support charges.
The Crown Prosecution Service approved a total of 32 charges, including sexual activity with a child, inciting sexual activity involving a minor, and sexual communication with a child.
Additional counts covered causing minors to view sexual acts, producing indecent photographs of children across different categories collecting thousands of images and videos and distributing such material.
Charges also included possession of prohibited and extreme pornographic images, voyeurism, and upskirting.
Alden appeared in court in June last year, pleaded guilty to all charges, and was released on conditional bail.
On Monday, March 16, at Basildon Crown Court, he received a sentence of 20 years in total—14 years imprisonment and an extra six years on licence.
His name will remain on the sex offenders register for life, and he will be subject to ongoing notification requirements.
He was also issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
