ANDREW STEELE FROM OSWESTRY ADMITS TO HORRIFIC CHILD AND ANIMAL PORNOGRAPHY IN TAUNTON

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Andrew Steele, a 57-year-old resident of Middleton Road in Oswestry, appeared at Taunton Crown Court on February 5 to admit to possessing an extensive collection of illegal and highly disturbing images and videos involving children and animals.

The court was informed that Steele was in possession of more than 20,000 illicit images and videos, which included some of the most severe categories of child exploitation material. Specifically, between January 1, 2016, and January 26, 2017, Steele admitted to possessing 11,716 images and 651 movies classified as Category A, indicating the most serious level of child abuse content.

Further, he acknowledged holding 7,824 indecent images and 177 movies categorized as Category B, along with 2,224 indecent images and 252 movies classified as Category C. These categories reflect varying degrees of severity in the depiction of child exploitation, with Category A being the most severe and Category C less so. The sheer volume of such material underscores the gravity of the offense.

In addition to the child exploitation images, Steele also admitted to possessing 37 prohibited images and five movies involving children, which are considered illegal under current laws. The court also heard that Steele was in possession of 26 images and 114 movies of an extreme pornographic nature, depicting acts of intercourse with live animals, specifically dogs and horses. These images and videos were described as explicit, realistic, and grossly offensive, highlighting the disturbing nature of the material.

Judge Paul Cook, presiding over the case, decided to postpone Steele’s sentencing to allow for a pre-sentence report to be prepared. The judge issued a stern warning, emphasizing that the delay in sentencing would not necessarily result in a lighter punishment. "Your sentencing will be adjourned for a pre-sentence report," Judge Cook stated. "This leaves all options open to the judge who imposes your sentence."

Steele’s next court appearance is scheduled for February 26 at Taunton Crown Court, where the full extent of his sentence will be determined. The case has garnered significant attention due to the nature of the crimes and the disturbing content involved, raising serious concerns about the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals and animals.