SHERBORNE PAEDOPHILE STEPHEN WHITTLE SENTENCED FOR INDECENT IMAGES IN DORSET

In October 2014, a serious case involving the possession of indecent images of children led to the conviction of Stephen Whittle, a 61-year-old resident of Sherborne, Dorset. Whittle appeared before Dorchester Crown Court to face charges after admitting to four counts of possessing indecent images of minors. The court was informed by prosecutor Robert Griffiths that police investigations uncovered a staggering total of 955 images stored on Whittle’s personal computer, depicting children as young as two or three years old in explicit and inappropriate scenarios.

According to the evidence presented, Whittle’s viewing of these illicit images began in 2010. The court heard that his interest was sparked after he encountered a pop-up advertisement on an adult pornography website, which led him down a disturbing path. Mr. Griffiths explained that Whittle would often save these images temporarily, intending to revisit them later, but would eventually delete them and start the cycle anew, indicating a pattern of ongoing illicit activity.

During the proceedings, defense lawyer Patrick Mason offered mitigation, suggesting that Whittle’s actions were influenced by personal circumstances. Mason stated that Whittle’s consumption of pornography started following a divorce, which left him feeling isolated and alone. He described Whittle as a man who had led an honest, industrious, and straightforward life, implying that his actions were out of character and possibly driven by emotional distress.

Judge Peter Johnson delivered the sentence, which included a three-year community order requiring supervision, reflecting the seriousness of the offense. Additionally, Whittle was issued a sexual offences prevention order that will remain in effect for ten years, restricting his activities and access to certain materials. He was also placed on the sex offenders register for a period of five years, a standard measure for such convictions. Furthermore, Whittle was ordered to pay costs amounting to £250, covering the expenses related to the case.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement in Dorset to combat the distribution and possession of child exploitation material, and underscores the importance of vigilance and legal action in protecting vulnerable minors from exploitation and abuse.