DARYL JOHN FROM THORNABY PLEADS GUILTY TO CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES AT TEESSIDE CROWN COURT

In a case that has drawn significant attention at Teesside Crown Court, Daryl John, a 53-year-old resident of Thornaby, has formally admitted to charges related to the creation of indecent photographs of children. The court proceedings took place on a recent Friday, where John pleaded guilty to three separate counts involving the possession of illegal images.

These charges specifically concern eight illicit photographs, with six of them classified under the most severe legal category, indicating their highly disturbing nature. The offences in question were committed over a period spanning from December 2009 to July of the previous year, highlighting a prolonged period of illegal activity.

At this stage, the court has not yet detailed the full facts of the case, and the sentencing hearing has been scheduled for next month. During the proceedings, Andrew Turton, representing John, explained that he had only recently received detailed instructions from his client. Turton emphasized that there are numerous sensitive issues involved, including medical and other agency-related considerations, which he suggested could be relevant and beneficial to the court’s understanding in due course.

Following the guilty plea, Daryl John was granted bail until his sentencing, which is set for April 28. The presiding judge, Judge Simon Bourne-Arton QC, who is also the Recorder of Middlesbrough, acknowledged John’s decision to plead guilty, stating, “You’ve had the good sense to plead guilty to this indictment and you’ll be given credit for this.”

However, the judge also made it clear that this leniency should not be mistaken for a sign of lenient sentencing. He explicitly warned John that the court is considering a custodial sentence, indicating the seriousness with which the case is being treated. The judge concluded by adjourning the sentencing, underscoring the gravity of the offences and the likelihood of a custodial outcome.