STEPHEN FULLER FROM LANGPORT ESCAPES PRISON AFTER CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES IN TAUNTON

In a case that has shocked the community of Langport, Stephen Fuller, a 30-year-old former gas engineer residing at The Hall, Henley, was found guilty of possessing and making indecent images of children. The incident came to light in July of the previous year when police officers conducted a raid on his residence, uncovering a significant collection of illicit material stored on his computer.

During the police investigation, it was revealed that Fuller had a total of 175 video clips and 4,352 still images depicting child abuse. These files were linked to credit card transactions made between 2002 and 2007, which the authorities traced back to Fuller’s accounts. The police followed the financial trail, leading them to his home in Langport, where they seized the computer and other electronic devices.

Fuller admitted to downloading the images and videos, explaining that his interest in such material began around 2003. He acknowledged that he found himself aroused by the content, which he had kept stored on his computer. Prosecutor Janice Eagles stated that Fuller provided a comprehensive account of his actions, including the fact that he had ceased using his credit card in late 2007. She added that he had also employed software to facilitate the downloading process and to enable others to access the illicit files stored on his device. Importantly, she clarified that Fuller was not charged with distribution of the images, only possession and creation.

At the court hearing, Fuller pleaded guilty to 19 counts of making indecent images and one count of possessing indecent images. He also disclosed to police that he had used a gaming console to access the material, although authorities were unable to retrieve evidence from that device.

Defence lawyer Michael Butler highlighted that Fuller had fully admitted his guilt and expressed relief that the matter had been uncovered. Despite the severity of the charges, the court considered his remorse and efforts to seek help. Judge Graham Hume Jones sentenced Fuller to nine months in prison, but this was suspended for two years. The judge remarked that it was unusual to see someone of Fuller’s age involved in such offences and expressed concern that his actions had been ongoing since he was 23.

Judge Jones emphasized the broader implications of Fuller’s behaviour, stating, “By indulging in this, you are keeping that sort of market going and encouraging the abuse of children.” He acknowledged that Fuller had voluntarily sought assistance from a treatment foundation and a psychotherapist, which demonstrated remorse and a willingness to address his issues. As part of his sentence, Fuller was placed under three years of supervision, required to attend the Thames Valley sex offenders programme, and was prohibited from accessing the internet without supervision. Additionally, he was issued a Sexual Offenders Prevention Order for five years and mandated to remain on the Sex Offenders Register for ten years, reflecting the seriousness with which the court viewed his offences.