CHARLES HELLARD OF WINCHESTER ESCAPES JAIL AFTER CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES

In June 2016, Charles Hellard, a retired senior army officer from Winchester, faced serious allegations related to the possession of extreme child abuse images and videos. Despite his previous reputation as a respected community figure, Hellard’s private life revealed a disturbing contrast to his public persona.

Hellard, who served as a lieutenant-colonel in the Army Catering Corps, was known for his extensive volunteer work and contributions to local charities. His efforts earned him a prestigious award from the Mayor of Winchester in 2014, recognizing his dedication to the Winchester charity, the Live at Home Scheme, which aims to support elderly residents in maintaining their independence.

However, the dark side of his private life came to light when police investigations uncovered his involvement with illegal online content. Prosecutor Edward Phillips told Winchester Crown Court that authorities traced the source of certain illicit websites to Hellard’s devices. It was revealed that Hellard, who was technologically savvy, had intentionally given his laptop to his adult daughter, believing that encryption would prevent her from discovering the incriminating material.

Hellard, residing on Gar Street in Winchester, was found to have a troubling collection of over 180 images, photos, and videos involving the sexual abuse of children as young as five. The court was informed that some of the images depicted acts of bestiality and severe injuries inflicted on victims. Despite the gravity of these findings, two additional charges against him were dropped, and they will remain on file.

During police interviews, Hellard claimed that his interest was driven by “curiosity” and insisted he had not shared the images with anyone. His defense argued that a personal matter, which was not disclosed publicly, contributed to his behavior. Andy Houston, representing Hellard, emphasized that his client was “deeply ashamed and embarrassed” about his actions.

Judge Keith Cutler, the Recorder of Winchester, presided over the case and delivered the sentence. He acknowledged the complexity of Hellard’s situation, noting the tributes he had received from friends and community members. The judge remarked, “This is the end of your public shame and humiliation. I hope it is the beginning of you leading a new and better life.”

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Cutler highlighted the duality of Hellard’s life—his public service contrasted sharply with his private misconduct. He expressed understanding of how Hellard’s life had “gone off the rails,” leading to his downfall.

Hellard was sentenced to a 24-month community order, which includes mandatory participation in an internet sex offender treatment program and a 60-day rehabilitation requirement. Additionally, he is to be registered as a sex offender for five years and will be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for the same duration.

Since his retirement from the Army, Hellard had been actively involved in charity work, including volunteering as a driver for the Live at Home Scheme and serving as an accountant for the Gurkha Museum at Peninsula Barracks in Winchester for nine years. He also held positions as a director of the Peninsula Barracks Management Company and the Lower Peninsula Barracks Management Company, though he resigned from these roles following his arrest last year.

His contributions to the community, including receiving the Mayor of Winchester Community Award in 2014, were overshadowed by his criminal conduct. Hellard’s case serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers that can lurk behind seemingly respectable facades, and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable children from exploitation.