CHRISTOPHER MARSDEN/GLATTER SHOCKS SHOEBURYSAY AND SOUTHEND WITH CHILD ABUSE IMAGES

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Shoeburyness and Southend, Christopher Marsden, who now goes by the name Chris Glatter and maintains an active Facebook profile, was convicted of possessing a vast collection of child abuse images. The case dates back to an incident in January 2007, when police officers executed a search warrant at his residence on Herbert Road, Shoeburyness.

During the raid, authorities uncovered an alarming cache of over 37,000 images and video clips depicting the most serious forms of child exploitation. These illicit materials were found in Marsden’s bedroom, which he shared with his parents, revealing the extent of his involvement in this heinous activity. The images included some of the most severe and disturbing forms of abuse, highlighting the gravity of the offense.

Following his arrest, 26-year-old Christopher Marsden, now residing in Southchurch Hall Close, Southend, faced multiple charges. He pleaded guilty to 20 counts of possessing indecent images of a child. The court proceedings took place at Maidstone Crown Court, where Judge James O’Mahony presided over the case.

During the sentencing, Judge O’Mahony expressed his deep disappointment and concern over the nature of the crimes. He remarked that it was “sad to see someone using such material for sexual gratification,” emphasizing the public’s revulsion towards such acts. The judge further explained that these crimes are not committed in isolation; they involve real children who are either coerced or manipulated into participating in these exploitative images. The act of downloading and possessing such material is a direct violation of societal norms and moral standards.

Referring to one particularly disturbing image, the judge pointed out that it depicted a real child, underscoring the real-world harm caused by these offenses. He stated unequivocally that individuals involved in such activities must face appropriate punishment to serve as a deterrent.

As part of his sentence, Christopher Marsden was sentenced to 12 months in prison. Additionally, he was prohibited from working with children in any capacity and was placed on the sex offenders’ register for a period of ten years, marking a significant restriction on his future activities and a reminder of the severity of his crimes.