ANDREW WALMSLEY CAUGHT WITH INDECENT IMAGES IN LONGRIDGE

In March 2005, a serious criminal case unfolded involving Andrew Walmsley, a resident of Longridge, who was found to have downloaded and possessed indecent images of children. The case came to light after colleagues at his workplace, Commercial Freeze Drying Ltd in Grimsargh, reported suspicious activity following a system crash that revealed illicit material on his computer.

Walmsley, aged 41 and living on Lindale Road in Longridge, was employed as a production and engineering manager at the company. The discovery of the indecent images prompted an immediate police investigation, which uncovered further disturbing evidence. It was revealed that some of the accessed sites had been visited during the night shift hours, raising suspicion that Walmsley was responsible for the illicit activity.

Following the police's intervention, a warrant was executed at Walmsley's residence, leading to the seizure of his computer system. During police interviews, Walmsley initially claimed that he had experienced a computer malfunction that prevented him from shutting down his device. He denied any knowledge of the obscene images found on his computer. However, as the investigation progressed, he chose to volunteer additional information, admitting that he had touched a girl under the age of 16 and expressing a desire to seek help for his actions.

It was also disclosed that Walmsley had been involved in the cub scout movement, which added a layer of concern given the nature of his offences. His criminal activities included four charges of indecent assault, three charges of engaging in sexual activity with a child, and nine charges related to the creation and possession of indecent photographs of a child.

In court, Preston Crown Court heard the details of his case, and Walmsley's actions were met with serious judicial scrutiny. Judge Anthony Russell QC sentenced him to a three-year community rehabilitation order, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and rehabilitating offenders. Additionally, a five-year sexual offences prevention order was imposed, which prohibited Walmsley from possessing or using any computer or photographic equipment, and barred him from being a member of any youth organization or working with children.

Furthermore, Walmsley was ordered to register as a sex offender, a measure intended to protect the community and ensure ongoing oversight of his activities. The case highlighted the disturbing breach of trust given his involvement with youth activities and underscored the importance of vigilance in safeguarding children from potential predators.