STEWART BENNETT OF ST AGNES ESCAPES JAIL DESPITE CHILD ABUSE IMAGES AND SICK SEARCHES IN CORNWALL

In November 2020, Stewart Bennett, a 59-year-old former builder from Trevellas, St Agnes, faced serious allegations related to the possession of indecent images of children and extreme pornography. The case was brought before Truro Crown Court, where Bennett appeared for sentencing after admitting to three charges involving the possession of such illicit material.

The investigation into Bennett’s activities was initiated in July 2018 when police executed a search warrant at his residence in Trevellas, a village near St Agnes in Cornwall. During the search, authorities confiscated multiple electronic devices, including computers and storage media, which were subsequently examined for illegal content. The forensic analysis revealed a disturbing collection of images, with 143 classified as Category A, indicating the most severe level of indecency, 66 as Category B, and 13 as Category C. These images depicted children as young as six months old being subjected to abuse, a fact that underscored the gravity of Bennett’s offenses.

Further investigations uncovered that Bennett had used the internet to search for highly disturbing terms, including ‘best animal vagina’ and other phrases related to bestiality, alongside searches for child abuse images. Authorities also found evidence that he had accessed websites dedicated to child exploitation, highlighting a pattern of disturbing online behavior.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Carr addressed Bennett directly, stating, “Children as young as six months would not be being raped if it weren’t for you. Children are raped because you create the business.” The judge’s remarks emphasized the seriousness of Bennett’s actions and the harm caused.

Despite the severity of the crimes, Bennett was sentenced to eight months in prison, but the sentence was suspended for two years. This means he will not serve time immediately, provided he complies with certain conditions, including completing a rehabilitation activity program aimed at addressing his offending behavior. Additionally, Bennett was subjected to a three-month curfew from 7 pm to 7 am and was ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities and compliance with legal restrictions.