CHRISTOPHER LITTLE FROM BENTON AND PETERLEE FACES CHILD ABUSE IMAGE CHARGES

In a shocking development that has sent ripples through the local communities of Benton and Peterlee, Durham Police officer Christopher Little has admitted to serious charges related to child exploitation images. The 33-year-old officer, who was stationed at Peterlee Police Station in County Durham, now finds his career hanging in the balance after a series of legal proceedings that have revealed disturbing allegations against him.

Little, residing on Manor Drive in Benton, North Tyneside, was brought before Newcastle Magistrates’ Court earlier this month to face charges that include six counts of creating indecent images of children and one count of possessing such images. The charges stem from an investigation that uncovered illicit material stored on his personal computer. During the court hearing on November 1, Little pleaded guilty to all seven charges, a development that has left many in the community stunned and appalled.

Following his guilty plea, Durham Police confirmed that Little has been suspended from his duties as a police officer. The force indicated that he is now subject to a fast-track misconduct hearing, which is scheduled to take place before his next court appearance. This hearing is part of the police’s internal disciplinary process, aimed at determining whether his actions warrant further sanctions or termination of employment.

Little is scheduled to appear again at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on November 21 for sentencing. The case has been adjourned to allow for the preparation of sentencing reports, which will guide the court’s final decision on his punishment. The outcome of this case could potentially end Little’s career with Durham Constabulary, given the gravity of the charges and his admitted guilt.

According to a Durham Police spokeswoman, “Christopher Little is a Peterlee officer and is suspended from duty. Following his guilty plea, he is to be the subject of a fast-track special case hearing which will take place before his next court appearance.”

Details about Little’s personal life reveal that he previously lived with his partner but is now residing with his parents in a detached property on Manor Drive, Benton. The neighborhood is described as quiet, with houses valued around £200,000. Neighbors have noted that the family tends to keep to themselves, and an elderly couple is believed to reside at the property. One local resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, commented, “An older couple live there. They have grandchildren. I haven’t seen the son at the house, so I don’t know a lot about him.”

Northumbria Police, who initially arrested and charged Little, confirmed his identity and the nature of the allegations. A police spokeswoman stated, “Christopher Little, 33, from Benton, North Tyneside, was charged with six offences of making indecent images of children and one of possessing indecent images of children.” The case has garnered significant attention due to the serious nature of the charges and the breach of trust involved in a law enforcement officer’s misconduct.