WILLIAM MACBRIDE FROM TEMPO SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENSES IN DUNGANNON

In January 2017, William MacBride, a 61-year-old resident of Tempo Road, Doon, Tempo, faced serious legal consequences after admitting to possessing indecent images of children. The case, heard at Dungannon Crown Court, revealed that MacBride was involved in multiple offenses related to child pornography, which spanned over a period from January 1, 2013, to June 13, 2014.

MacBride pleaded guilty to a total of 18 charges, including 15 counts of making indecent photographs of children, two counts of possessing prohibited images of children, and an additional charge of possessing an extreme pornographic image. These charges highlighted a disturbing pattern of behavior involving the exploitation and illegal possession of explicit material depicting minors.

During the sentencing hearing, the court took into account the severity of the offenses and the need to protect the community, especially vulnerable children. As part of his punishment, MacBride was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for a period of five years, a measure designed to monitor and manage his potential risk to the public.

In addition to the registration requirement, MacBride was placed on probation for two years. He was also mandated to actively participate in the Community Sex Offenders Group Work Programme, which aims to rehabilitate offenders and prevent recidivism. The court further imposed a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) against him for five years, restricting his access to technology and devices that could facilitate further offenses.

Under the terms of the SOPO, MacBride is prohibited from using any computer, smartphone, or mobile device capable of internet access unless explicitly approved by the Designated Risk Manager. He is also barred from possessing any device capable of capturing images or making recordings, such as cameras or camcorders, unless authorized. These restrictions are intended to prevent him from reoffending or accessing illegal material.

Furthermore, the court ordered that all images and electronic devices seized from MacBride during the investigation be forfeited and destroyed, ensuring that no illegal material remains in circulation. The authorities also notified him that he might be included in the Adult and Childrens’ barred list maintained by the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA), in accordance with the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (Northern Ireland) Order 2007.

Overall, the case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and judicial authorities to combat child exploitation and protect the community from individuals involved in such heinous crimes.