ANTHONY LOWE FROM STOCKTON-ON-TEES CONVICTED OVER CHILD INDECENT IMAGES AT LONG LARTIN PRISON

In April 2016, a serious case involving Anthony Lowe, a former prison warden at the high-security Long Lartin Prison in South Littleton, came to light. Lowe, who currently resides in Stockton-on-Tees, was brought before Worcester Crown Court after authorities uncovered disturbing evidence on his personal devices.

Police investigations revealed that Lowe possessed indecent images of young girls aged between 12 and 14. The images included various categories, with some classified as Category B, along with one video, as well as Category C images and two videos. The authorities confiscated an iPhone and a laptop from Lowe’s residence during the investigation. Despite the evidence, Lowe maintained that he did not intentionally download any illegal images, asserting a lack of deliberate action.

Prosecutor Kevin Grego detailed the findings, emphasizing the severity of the material found. The court was informed that the images depicted minors in compromising and illegal situations, which is a grave concern given the nature of the content.

During the court proceedings, Lowe’s defense lawyer, Makkan Shoker, highlighted the personal toll the case had taken on Lowe. He stated, “It is abundantly clear that his discretion has resulted in substantial personal losses. He has lost his job, his wife and is in debt. He is totally ashamed of what he has done.”

Judge Recorder Adrian Feest QC addressed the court, underscoring the seriousness of viewing and possessing such images. He remarked, “Anyone who looks at images of child abuse would very much go to prison, but if you had more images of a more serious category and if younger children were involved, I would have sent you to prison.” The judge also pointed out Lowe’s awareness of the gravity of his actions, given his previous employment at a prison where he would have been familiar with the harm caused to children.

Ultimately, Lowe was sentenced to a 26-week prison term, which was suspended for two years. Additionally, he was ordered to complete a 20-day rehabilitation program with the probation service. The court also mandated that Lowe sign the sexual offenders register for a period of seven years and imposed a sexual prevention order lasting five years to restrict his future conduct.

This case highlights the ongoing concerns about the possession and distribution of child abuse images, and the importance of rigorous legal action to protect vulnerable minors from exploitation and harm.