DARREN LING FROM HAVERHILL CAUGHT FILMING GIRLS IN CAMBRIDGE WITH CHILD ABUSE IMAGES

In May 2014, Darren Ling, a 45-year-old man from Haverhill, was involved in a disturbing case that unfolded in the city of Cambridge. Ling was found to have secretly recorded numerous young women, often in short skirts, by filming up their skirts in public spaces. His collection reportedly included as many as 200 videos and photographs, capturing women from behind and at angles that revealed their underwear. The extent of his illicit activities extended beyond simple voyeurism, as police discovered child abuse images on his computer, including four images classified as level 4, which is considered the second most serious category, with one of these involving a baby.r>

Ling’s illicit behavior was brought to light when an off-duty police officer observed him acting suspiciously in Cambridge city centre on July 10. The officer noticed Ling walking unnaturally close to a female wearing a very short skirt and appeared to be holding something in his hand. The officer quickly realized that Ling was filming up the girl’s skirt, prompting immediate suspicion and subsequent police intervention.r>

Following his arrest, Ling was interviewed by police, during which he admitted to filming young women approximately once a month, not only in Cambridge but also at car boot sales and once in Suffolk. He confessed that he sometimes masturbated to the videos he created, emphasizing that these recordings were solely for his personal use and that he had never uploaded them to the internet. Ling explained to authorities that he left his home around 9 a.m. with the intention of walking around shops, and if he saw any attractive girls, he would film them covertly. He claimed he did not realize his actions were wrong until his arrest, stating that the girls were unaware they were being filmed and that he believed they would be upset or feel violated if they knew.r>

Police conducted a search of Ling’s residence in Cramswell Close, Haverhill, uncovering not only the videos and photographs but also the disturbing child abuse images. Among these were four images classified as level 4, with one involving a baby, highlighting the severity of the material found.r>

Ling faced multiple charges, including two counts of outraging public decency, possession of indecent photographs of a child, and making indecent photographs of a child. During a previous hearing, he admitted to these offenses. His long-term girlfriend, who was present in court supporting him, is reportedly standing by his side despite the gravity of his crimes. Her father is currently battling terminal cancer, adding a layer of complexity to the case.r>

Legal representatives for Ling argued that he was “very naive” and initially believed his actions were harmless, describing him as someone who was open with police from the outset. His lawyer emphasized that Ling now recognizes the seriousness of his offenses and that his partner, although horrified, remains supportive, understanding the importance of his support during this difficult time. The court was informed that Ling appreciated the “shape of the female figure,” a statement that drew criticism from the prosecution.r>

Given the nature and severity of the crimes, magistrates determined that their sentencing powers were insufficient to deal with the case and therefore committed it to the Crown Court for further proceedings.