CRAIG ANGOVE FROM KINGSTON ESCAPES PRISON DESPITE CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENSES

In a case that has sparked considerable controversy, Craig Angove, a 37-year-old resident of Norbiton Common in Kingston, was recently sentenced for possessing a significant collection of child pornography. The court proceedings, held at Kingston Crown Court, revealed that Angove was found in possession of 815 indecent images of children, along with a video depicting child exploitation. Despite the severity of these crimes, the judge opted against imposing a custodial sentence, citing concerns over the effectiveness of incarceration and the need for ongoing supervision.

Instead of prison, Angove was handed a community order that mandates a three-year period of supervision. This supervision includes regular monitoring by the community sex offenders' team and a requirement for Angove to participate in a community sex offenders' programme. The judge, Judge Price, emphasized the gravity of child pornography crimes, stating, "Society rightly finds abhorrent child pornography. The damage it does to young children psychologically is immense. The damage which is sometimes done physically is appalling, and anyone involved in viewing such material feeds that loathsome trade."

Judge Price further explained his reasoning, saying, "It seems to me, irrespective of overcrowding in prisons, that the public interest will be better served if someone keeps a very close eye on you for the longest time possible." The judge ordered a progress report on Angove’s case to be submitted within three months, underscoring the importance of ongoing oversight.

Angove’s arrest took place in May 2005 at his residence. Police investigations uncovered a disk containing the images and video, which had not been accessed for over five years. Importantly, there was no evidence to suggest that Angove had been actively browsing the internet for indecent images at the time of his arrest. The evidence collected included 108 images and a video classified as level four in seriousness, which is considered the second most severe level of such material.

Prior to his trial, Angove pleaded guilty to 17 charges related to possession of indecent images. He maintained that he had never actually viewed the images, a claim that the court did not find convincing. The judge noted that although he initially considered imposing a prohibition order—banning Angove from working with children—legal restrictions prevented such a measure. Additionally, the judge decided against ordering costs, citing Angove’s status as a recipient of incapacity benefit.

As part of his sentence, Angove will be registered on the sex offenders' register, ensuring that authorities can monitor his activities closely in the future. The case has raised ongoing concerns about the adequacy of sentencing in child pornography cases and the importance of vigilant supervision to prevent further harm.