GIFFNOCK PERVERT STEVEN HOWIE ESCAPES JAIL DESPITE OVER 300,000 CHILD PORN IMAGES FOUND

In a case that has shocked the community of Giffnock, Steven Howie, a 46-year-old man, was found to possess an alarming collection of indecent images of children, totaling over 300,000 files. Despite the severity of the offense, Howie was not sentenced to prison but instead received a probation order, a decision that has sparked controversy and concern among local residents and advocacy groups.

Authorities uncovered the extensive cache of child pornography after receiving a tip-off that led them to search Howie’s residence in Giffnock. The police investigation revealed that Howie had downloaded thousands of these illicit images onto his computer, as well as onto discs and other electronic storage devices. The images included some at the most severe level of indecency, with more than 900 classified as the worst category.

During the court proceedings, Howie admitted to possessing indecent photographs or pseudo-photos of children from December 2005 through March of the previous year. The police recovered a staggering total of 305,919 images from his home, which he shared with his father. The sheer volume of material found was described as 'massive' by the authorities, highlighting the gravity of the case.

At the High Court in Edinburgh, Lord Bonomy presided over the case and addressed Howie directly. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating, “It does need to be made clear publicly that you offended in a very serious way.” However, Lord Bonomy also acknowledged that Howie did not participate in the creation, distribution, or discussion of the images with others. Instead, the judge noted that Howie derived sexual satisfaction from viewing the images at home, which he described as a 'sad and introspective life.'

Despite the gravity of the crime, Lord Bonomy decided against imprisonment, opting instead for a three-year probation order. The judge explained that this decision was based on the belief that Howie could benefit from supervised efforts to change his behavior. He stated, “From all the information I have, including background reports, it appears I have far greater control over the efforts to try to change your ways if I impose probation than if I jailed you.”

Lord Bonomy further clarified that the probation order would include specific conditions, which Howie would be required to adhere to. Breaching these conditions could result in immediate imprisonment, with no chance of bail. The judge’s decision was described as 'extremely unusual,' but he felt it was the most appropriate course of action given the circumstances.

In conclusion, Howie’s case has raised ongoing debates about sentencing for such serious offenses, especially in cases where the offender did not participate in the creation or distribution of illegal material but still engaged in viewing and possessing it. The community of Giffnock remains divided over the court’s decision, with many expressing concern over the message it sends regarding the handling of child exploitation crimes.