BERNARD CONNARTY CAUGHT WITH HUNDREDS OF INDECENT IMAGES IN CHESTERFIELD

In November 2012, a disturbing case emerged involving Bernard Connarty, a man with ties to Chesterfield, who was found in possession of a large collection of indecent images depicting children and young girls. The incident came to light after police investigations traced illicit material stored on a Luxembourg-based internet server back to several UK addresses, including Connarty’s residence in Treeneuk Close, Ashgate, Chesterfield.

Authorities acted swiftly once the connection was established. A search was conducted at Connarty’s home, leading to the seizure of multiple electronic devices, including computers and storage media. An in-depth analysis of a tower computer uncovered a staggering 1,946 indecent images. These images featured children aged approximately seven to fourteen, posed in sexually suggestive, erotic, but non-nude manners. The police investigation did not stop there; further evidence was uncovered, including two movie files containing 14 indecent images, discs with 726 indecent photographs, additional discs with 37 images, and another hard drive with 258 indecent images stored within its files.

Bernard Connarty, aged 56, appeared before Chesterfield magistrates’ court, where he pleaded guilty to six charges of making indecent images of children. The offences spanned from August 2006 to January 2012, highlighting a prolonged period during which the illegal material was accumulated and stored.

During the court proceedings, defence solicitor Bob Bashforth emphasized Connarty’s previously good character and expressed remorse for his actions. Bashforth explained that Connarty believed the images depicted attractive young women and claimed he had no sexual interest in children nor was aware that possessing such images was illegal. The court was informed that Connarty had no prior convictions and was considered to be of good standing before this incident.

District Judge Andrew Davison imposed a sentence that included registering Connarty under a five-year Sexual Offences Prevention Order. Additionally, Connarty was given an 18-month community order, which involves supervision and access to treatment programs. The court also ordered him to cover legal costs associated with the case. This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the distribution and possession of illegal images of minors, and highlights the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable children from exploitation.