2006: MAN JAILED OVER INDECENT PICTURES
Stephen Reed-Darby fabricating an email from a teen magazine to inform a schoolgirl that she had advanced to a modelling competition, then proceeding to conduct a sexually explicit photoshoot with her, was revealed in Worcester Crown Court.Authorities found him in possession of pornographic and semi-pornographic images of the girl across his camera, computer, and mobile device.
The 42-year-old, an online display specialist residing on Venns Lane, Hereford, pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to taking and possessing indecent images of minors.
He received an 18-month prison sentence, was placed on the sex offender register for a decade, and received a lifelong ban from working with children.
Prosecutor Francis Laird explained that Reed-Darby was asked to include the girl in a teen modelling contest organized by Bliss magazine.
Instead, he falsified an email claiming she was a finalist and arranged a photo shoot where he captured provocative images of her.
According to Mr.
Laird, during the shoot, the girl changed into various outfits, including a see-through negligee and a school blazer, and was instructed to mimic poses similar to those of pop star Kylie Minogue.
The girl's father, upon viewing the photos, contacted Bliss to report the incident, prompting the magazine to deny any communication or guidance from them.
This led to a police inquiry.
During a recorded interview with detectives, the girl described her belief that the photo session was legitimate and explained what occurred.
Police discovered images of her on Reed-Darby's devices.
Reed-Darby admitted he created the fake email because he forgot to enter her into the competition and did not wish to disappoint her, initially denying any indecent intent.
Defense lawyer Andrew Davidson stated that Reed-Darby's actions were limited to taking pictures for his own sexual pleasure.
Judge Peter Cooke described the offences as a serious breach of trust, calling them disgraceful.
