CHRISTOPHER KELSO FROM CARLISLE ESCAPES PRISON DESPITE CHILD SEXUAL OFFENSES

A disturbing case involving a man from Carlisle, Christopher Kelso, has come to light, revealing his troubling online behavior and possession of illegal images depicting child abuse. Despite the severity of his actions, Kelso has avoided immediate imprisonment, though he faces significant legal restrictions and supervision.

Kelso, aged 43, was found to have an unhealthy and deeply disturbing interest in children, which was uncovered after police seized his mobile phone. The device contained a total of 28 illegal images, including four classified as Category A, the most serious category, which depicted rape and torture of young children. Additionally, there were seven images categorized as B and four as C, along with other extreme pornography. These images had been downloaded over a period of approximately six weeks, indicating a sustained pattern of illegal activity.

The police investigation was initiated when officers visited Kelso’s residence on Ferguson Road in Carlisle on April 27, 2023. During the search, they confiscated his phone and discovered the disturbing content stored within. Prosecutor Tim Evans outlined the details in court, emphasizing the gravity of the material found and Kelso’s online activities.

Further evidence revealed that Kelso engaged in online conversations where he openly fantasized about sexual acts involving children. In one conversation, he boasted about having sex with a seven-year-old boy, although authorities believe this was purely a fantasy and not an actual plan. When questioned about the age range of children he was interested in, Kelso responded that it extended from four to eight years old, signing off his message with two kisses. The court was informed that Kelso’s interests appeared to be particularly focused on boys.

During the proceedings, it was noted that both Kelso and his online contact discussed the importance of being cautious to avoid detection, indicating an awareness of the illicit nature of their exchanges. Kelso, who was previously considered a man of good character and had no prior criminal record, was represented as someone who had never appeared in court before.

Judge Nicholas Barker addressed the court, describing Kelso’s actions as demonstrating a “deeply unhealthy and deviant” interest in children. Despite this, the Probation Service expressed confidence in their ability to work with him to address his issues. Ultimately, the judge sentenced Kelso to 12 months in custody, but this was suspended for two years, meaning he will not serve time immediately provided he complies with certain conditions.

The sentence also includes 180 hours of unpaid work, five days of rehabilitation activities, and participation in a “Building Choices” program aimed at addressing behavioral issues. Furthermore, Kelso will be required to register as a sex offender for the next ten years and will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order for the same duration, ensuring ongoing supervision and restrictions to protect the community from potential harm.