ALAN DAGLISH AND SHOCKING CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN NEWCASTLE
In a serious case that has shocked the local community, Alan Daglish, a 37-year-old resident of Collingwood Street, South Shields, was brought before the court in Newcastle to face charges related to the possession and distribution of highly disturbing and illegal images.Authorities seized Daglish's Samsung mobile phone and tablet during their investigation.
A thorough examination of these devices revealed a disturbing collection of digital material.
Specifically, they contained a total of 10 Category A images and videos, which are classified as the most severe and illegal content.
In addition, there were 23 Category B images and 16 Category C images, indicating a range of illegal material of varying severity.
The court was informed that Daglish was part of a WhatsApp group where he shared a single Category A video.
The group members demonstrated a clear interest in such illicit content, which included not only images and videos depicting sexual violence and abuse but also material involving bestiality.
Furthermore, it was revealed that members of this group discussed and recommended access to websites hosting such horrific content, which the court described as 'horrific.' Judge Julie Clemitson addressed the court, emphasizing the gravity of Daglish's associations and actions.
She stated, 'He was an associate of those who had particularly gruesome interests.' During the proceedings, Daglish admitted to multiple charges: one count of distributing an indecent image, three counts of making indecent images, and one count of possessing a prohibited image, which was a cartoon.
In light of his admissions, the court sentenced him to two years in prison, but this sentence was suspended for two years.
Additionally, Daglish was ordered to complete 240 hours of unpaid work and to participate in rehabilitation programs.
As part of his ongoing obligations, Daglish was also ordered to sign the sex offenders register and adhere to a sexual harm prevention order for the next ten years.
Judge Clemitson highlighted the international aspect of the case, noting, 'You came to the attention of the authorities in this country via the authorities in the US, who became aware of you sharing a category A video on WhatsApp.' She further explained that Daglish was associating with individuals who shared a disturbing interest in such content and that they had recommended viewing material depicting the most horrific acts, including rape, sexual violence, child abuse, and bestiality.
While there was no direct evidence that Daglish had viewed the 'horrific' websites suggested by the group, the judge pointed out that the images on his devices depicted real victims suffering harm, with consequences that could last a lifetime.
She expressed skepticism about his claims of no sexual interest in children, stating, 'You claim to have no sexual interest in children and that I cannot accept but hope it is something you will come to deal with in due course.' Daglish attributed his actions to alcohol misuse, which he claimed influenced his behavior.
The court acknowledged that Daglish has no prior convictions and has sought help for his alcohol problems.
Judge Clemitson expressed a cautious optimism about his potential for rehabilitation, stating, 'He is capable of rehabilitation, is allowed one opportunity, and the world will be a safer place for children if you do successfully address those issues.' Gavin Doig, representing Daglish, emphasized that the probation service believes he can benefit from intervention and expressed his client's concern about the outcome of the case, saying, 'This is a defendant who the probation service say they can work with and who they say can benefit from intervention.
He is obviously extremely concerned about the outcome.'
