ADNAAN HUSSAIN SHAMES TUNSTALL WITH CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN HORRIFIC CASE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Tunstall, Adnaan Hussain, a 23-year-old resident of Stanley Street, was found in possession of deeply disturbing images depicting child abuse. The incident came to light in April 2002 when Hussain was caught with vile photographs of children on his mobile device, specifically on his iPhone.

According to reports, the images were initially received by Hussain via the Kik messaging app, a platform known for its anonymity and popularity among young users. He viewed these images before deleting them, attempting to conceal his involvement. However, the authorities were alerted when Kik notified the police that an indecent image had been uploaded from Hussain’s account. This prompted a police visit to his home in Tunstall.

On June 3, law enforcement officers arrived at Hussain’s residence at approximately 9:35 am. The police were granted entry by Hussain himself, who confirmed that he was the user associated with the email address linked to the account. During the investigation, both his laptop and phone were examined. While the laptop yielded no evidence of indecent images, the iPhone contained a total of 37 images categorized into A, B, and C severity levels. Specifically, there were 14 Category A images, considered the most serious, along with eight Category B and 15 Category C images. The police found no evidence suggesting that Hussain actively searched for such material; it appeared he had merely accessed and subsequently deleted the images.

In his police interview, Hussain admitted that he had received the images from other users and that he had viewed them but had taken steps to delete them afterward. He pleaded guilty to three charges of making indecent images of children, with the offences spanning from July 3, 2019, to May 16, 2020.

During the court proceedings at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, Deputy Circuit Judge Paul Glenn addressed Hussain directly. Recognizing his young age and previous good character, the judge acknowledged that Hussain had shown remorse and had pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. The judge noted that the number of images was relatively small and that there was no evidence of active searching for such material, which suggested that Hussain’s actions were limited to viewing and deleting the images.

Judge Glenn emphasized the seriousness of Category A images, which depict young children and are of particular concern, though he acknowledged that only a few such images were involved. He also highlighted Hussain’s educational background, being degree-educated, and his role as the eldest of six siblings. The judge stated that the offences were nearly three years old and had been a burden on Hussain’s conscience for a significant period.

Considering all factors, the judge decided that a custodial sentence was unnecessary and that Hussain presented a good prospect for rehabilitation. As part of his sentence, Hussain was ordered to complete a 55-day rehabilitation activity program called Horizon, and he will be subject to a 14-day electronically monitored curfew on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10 pm to 6 am. Additionally, Hussain was placed under a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) and registered as a sex offender for the same duration. The court also ordered the forfeiture and destruction of his phone and imposed costs of £425.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the distribution and possession of child abuse images, and it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and swift action in protecting vulnerable children from exploitation.