COLIN ANDREWS FROM CHELTENHAM SHAMES HIMSELF WITH CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES

In April 2014, a disturbing case unfolded involving Colin Andrews, a former Royal Air Force (RAF) sergeant residing in Cheltenham, who faced serious allegations related to child exploitation and possession of extreme pornography. Andrews, aged 60 and a grandfather living at Stansby Park, The Reddings, was found to have engaged in the illegal downloading and distribution of child pornography, as well as possessing material involving extreme acts with animals.

According to court proceedings at Gloucester Crown Court, Andrews had taken deliberate steps to conceal his activities by registering multiple online profiles under different female aliases. These accounts were used to access forbidden content and to engage in 'fantasy chats' centered around children, which further compounded the severity of his offenses. The court heard that his actions spanned from January 2009 to July 2013, during which he committed six counts of making indecent photographs of children, two counts of possessing extreme pornography, and seven counts of distributing indecent movie files involving minors.

During the hearing, Andrews was given the opportunity to address the court before sentencing. He expressed profound remorse and confusion about his actions. Standing in the dock, he stated, “I don’t understand it myself, I really don’t. I never want to be that person again.” He also admitted to feeling sickened by his own behavior and described his shame and regret.

It was revealed that Andrews had a history of childhood abuse himself, which he had not disclosed until his arrest. He explained that after his activities came to light, he sought help from his general practitioner, who provided support and arranged counseling. Andrews emphasized that he believed he had changed and was now more emotionally open and understanding of his past trauma. He expressed love for his children and grandchildren, stating, “I am at a loss to explain what I was doing and the depression I was in.”

Judge Jamie Tabor QC sentenced Andrews to two years in prison, but the sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he reoffended within that period. Additionally, Andrews was placed under supervision for 18 months, ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid community service, and pay costs of £300. The court also highlighted the importance of monitoring his rehabilitation.

The police investigation was initiated after authorities received intelligence from an anti-child exploitation agency on May 29 of the previous year. The agency identified a user registered as Sally Brown who was downloading illegal content in Gloucestershire. Law enforcement traced the activity to a T Mobile account registered at an address in Longlevens. However, upon visiting that address, police discovered Andrews had already moved. Further investigation led to his new residence, where authorities seized computer equipment from his camper van, linking him directly to the illegal material.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat online child exploitation and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable victims from such heinous crimes.