STEPHEN MANLEY FROM BOVEY TRACEY SENTENCED AFTER CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CASE IN DEVON

In a significant case that has drawn considerable public attention in Devon, Stephen Manley, a 44-year-old man formerly residing in Bovey Tracey, has been involved in serious criminal activities related to child exploitation. The proceedings took place at Exeter Crown Court, where it was revealed that Manley had committed multiple offenses involving indecent images of minors.

Manley admitted to making, possessing, and distributing indecent images depicting boys aged between 12 and 16. Specifically, he pleaded guilty to five counts of creating such images, six counts of possessing them, and one count of distributing these illicit materials. These actions have caused considerable concern among local residents and advocacy groups, especially given the context of a Facebook campaign that was launched to highlight his activities.

The campaign was initiated after it was discovered that a Facebook group was set up with the aim of pressuring authorities to relocate Manley from his mother’s residence. His mother’s house was located in close proximity to a school, which heightened fears about the safety of children in the area. The campaign underscored community fears and called for action to prevent any potential harm.

Since October, Manley has been in custody, awaiting sentencing. The court heard that he would now be released from detention but would be required to live in a bail hostel, away from Bovey Tracey, to mitigate any risk to the community. The decision was made after police checked the new address, which was deemed to be a safe location.

Judge Phillip Wassall presided over the case and ordered Manley to undertake sex offenders’ treatment as part of a two-year community order. The judge emphasized the importance of rehabilitation and community safety, stating, “The address where you are going has been checked by the police and is perfectly safe.” This case highlights ongoing concerns about child exploitation and the importance of community vigilance and legal measures to protect vulnerable minors in Devon.