ASHLEY TURNER FROM EXETER AND WEST HILL CAUGHT WITH CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN SHOCKING CRIME

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local communities of Exeter and West Hill, Ashley Turner, aged 31, has been found guilty of possessing and making indecent images of children. The incident came to light after police investigations uncovered explicit videos stored on a USB device, which Turner had hidden at his residence in Exeter.

According to court reports, the USB drive was concealed inside a jar in Turner's bedroom, located within his home on Stuart Road, Exeter. The device contained two videos depicting serious acts of child sexual abuse, raising grave concerns about the nature of his interests and activities. The police were able to trace Turner through his internet activity, specifically his IP address, which was linked to suspicious online behavior. This connection prompted a thorough investigation and subsequent raid on his property in 2015.

During the police search, a variety of electronic equipment was seized for forensic examination. The analysis of the items revealed the presence of the illicit videos on a memory stick, which was found in a jug in his bedroom. The search terms used in the files suggested that Turner had a long-standing interest in such material, indicating a pattern of disturbing behavior.

Turner, who was employed as a manager at a convenience store in West Hill, worked approximately 60 hours per week. Despite his employment commitments, his criminal activities have now led to serious legal consequences. He admitted to making indecent images of children in court and was subsequently ordered to participate in the Horizon sex offenders' programme, a probation-led initiative aimed at rehabilitation.

Judge Geoffrey Mercer, QC, imposed a two-year community order on Turner, which includes mandatory registration on the sex offenders' register. Additionally, Turner was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), granting authorities the ability to monitor his internet usage closely. The judge emphasized the gravity of the offense, stating, “This was a serious offence. You are 31 and have no previous convictions or involvement with the criminal courts. That fact and that alone means you do not go to prison today, but you must understand this has got to stop. The police will be checking up on your computers and you will go to prison if it happens again.”

Prosecutor Mr. James Taghdissian highlighted the police's efforts in tracing Turner, noting that the investigation was initiated after suspicious online activity was detected. The police raided his home in 2015, seizing various electronic devices for forensic analysis. The findings confirmed the possession of child abuse material, leading to the court proceedings and subsequent sentencing. This case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat the distribution and possession of child exploitation images, and it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and swift action in protecting vulnerable children.