BENJAMIN HERON FROM BIRKENHEAD CAUGHT WITH CHILD SEX ABUSE IMAGES AGAIN IN LIVERPOOL CROWN COURT

In a disturbing case that has once again brought attention to the ongoing issue of child exploitation, Benjamin Heron, a resident of Birkenhead, was found to be in possession of indecent images of children for the second time. The case was heard at Liverpool Crown Court, revealing a troubling pattern of behavior that has shocked the local community and raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of previous legal measures.

Heron, aged 28 and living on Grange Place in Birkenhead, had previously been convicted in December 2018 on eight counts related to the downloading and possession of indecent and prohibited images. His prior conviction included a collection of over 1,000 disturbing files, among which were 108 Category A images depicting children being raped. As part of his sentence, he was subjected to an 18-month community order and a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

Despite these restrictions, Heron breached the terms of his SHPO by deleting his internet browsing history and downloading more illicit images. This breach was uncovered during a routine police visit to his home on October 21 of the previous year, conducted by the Merseyside Police Sex Offender Unit. Prosecutor Christopher Hopkins explained that during the inspection of Heron’s mobile phone, officers discovered that he had wiped his browsing history, claiming he did so because he was embarrassed about his online activity and did not want officers to see what he had been searching for or viewing. Heron insisted there was nothing on his device that could incriminate him.

However, further examination by police experts revealed the presence of Category C indecent images of young girls, estimated to be between 11 and 14 years old. When questioned, Heron admitted to possessing these images and acknowledged that he had them for sexual gratification. His confession confirmed that he had violated the terms of his previous order, which was meant to restrict his access to such material.

During the court proceedings, Judge David Swinnerton addressed Heron directly, emphasizing that deleting his search history was a deliberate act. The judge noted Heron’s explanation that he was embarrassed about his online activity and claimed some images were not illegal. Nonetheless, the judge clarified that even images classified as Category C—considered the lowest level of severity—are still serious because they depict naked or semi-clothed children in provocative poses. The judge underscored that these images are unlawful and represent the exploitation of children, emphasizing that such material fuels a market that encourages abuse.

Judge Swinnerton also highlighted the importance of understanding that viewing such images is not a victimless crime. Behind every picture is a child who has been abused, and the existence of these images perpetuates the cycle of exploitation. The judge reviewed Heron’s criminal history and the pre-sentence report, which indicated that he had shown some willingness to seek help after his previous conviction. However, the judge expressed concern that the help was not forthcoming or sufficient.

In light of these factors, Heron was sentenced to 16 months in prison, suspended for the maximum period of two years. The court also ordered him to participate in a sex offenders treatment program and complete a 60-day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement. Additionally, Heron was instructed to register on the Sex Offenders Register and to adhere to a new SHPO for the next ten years, reinforcing the seriousness of his ongoing obligations to prevent further offending.