TIPTON MAN STEVEN ATTWELL CAUGHT WITH VILE CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN WEST MIDLANDS

In September 2019, a disturbing case emerged involving Steven Attwell, a resident of Tipton, who was found to possess highly disturbing child abuse images. The authorities uncovered his secret after a tip-off prompted a police raid on his family home located on Tame Road in Tipton. During the search, officers discovered a collection of illicit material on his computer, including 40 videos and six still images classified within the most severe category of child sexual abuse imagery. Additionally, there were 148 other images deemed less obscene. Prosecutor Mr. Edward Soulsby explained that forensic analysis confirmed these images had been deleted immediately after viewing, indicating a disturbing pattern of behavior involving the material being accessed and then promptly removed.

These images were downloaded over a span of more than three years, from July 2015 to October 2018, and involved children aged between four and sixteen years old. Importantly, there was no evidence to suggest that Attwell uploaded these images to any other individuals or platforms, but his possession of such material was enough to warrant serious legal consequences.

Throughout the court proceedings, it was revealed that Attwell’s consumption of these illicit images was linked to episodes of intoxication. He would view the material while under the influence of alcohol and cocaine. However, the following mornings, when sober, he was overwhelmed with shame and remorse, leading him to delete the images. His defense lawyer, Mr. Stephen Cadwaladr, highlighted that the shame associated with his actions was so profound that Attwell even contemplated suicide. He further explained that after his arrest, Attwell sought help from a Christian organization called Betel, which is known for assisting individuals in overcoming addiction.

Attwell, who was a heavy smoker, consuming around 60 cigarettes daily, spent approximately nine months in a rehabilitation facility in the North East managed by Betel. During this period, he successfully abstained from alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs, demonstrating a commitment to turning his life around. Despite his efforts, he admitted to possessing indecent images, which led to his sentencing.

Judge Michael Challinor addressed Attwell directly, condemning the nature of the images he had viewed. He expressed his disbelief and disgust at the idea of deriving sexual gratification from images of toddlers, emphasizing the importance of protecting the public, especially vulnerable children. The judge stated, “The pornography you viewed is absolutely vile. Why anyone would want to look at images of toddlers to gain sexual gratification is beyond me. If I thought it would protect the public I would send you straight to prison. My principal duty is to protect people, especially the young, from you.”

In light of his actions, Attwell was sentenced to a three-year community order, which includes participation in a rehabilitation course. He was also ordered to pay costs amounting to £340. The court acknowledged that Attwell was of previously good character, and his efforts in rehabilitation were noted. Nonetheless, the severity of his possession of such disturbing images underscored the need for ongoing monitoring and intervention to prevent any potential harm to the community.