KNOTTINGLEY MAN STEVEN BYRNE SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN LEEDS

In August 2017, a man from Knottingley named Steven Byrne was handed a significant prison sentence after being found guilty of serious child sex offences. Byrne, aged 32 and residing on Elm Place in Knottingley, was convicted in Leeds Crown Court for attempting to arrange the sexual abuse of a minor, as well as for possessing indecent images of children.

His arrest took place in June when law enforcement officials uncovered evidence of his online activities. Authorities discovered that Byrne had been using a social media application to communicate with another adult, during which he discussed plans to sexually abuse a young child. The conversations, which revealed his intent to meet and carry out the abuse, prompted immediate action from the police.

After reviewing the chat logs, officers decided to arrest Byrne without delay. The subsequent search of his computer equipment and storage devices uncovered a disturbing collection of indecent images, classified as Class A, B, and C, further implicating him in the possession and distribution of child exploitation material.

Following a thorough investigation, Byrne was formally charged with facilitating a child sex offence and distributing indecent images of children. He subsequently pleaded guilty to these charges, acknowledging his involvement in the criminal activities. Today, at Leeds Crown Court, Byrne was sentenced to four years in prison, with an additional four years of extended licence, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the need for ongoing supervision after his release.