DAVID NOVAK FROM ALSTON ADMITS TO DOWNLOADING HUNDREDS OF CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN CUMBRIA

In a significant case heard at Carlisle Crown Court, David Novak, a 42-year-old resident of Jollybeard Gate in Alston, has confessed to the serious crime of downloading a large number of indecent images depicting children. The proceedings took place in January 2017, where Novak faced four charges related to his actions over a span of several years.

During the brief hearing before Judge Peter Hughes QC, Novak pleaded guilty to all the charges brought against him. These charges included three counts of making indecent photographs of children and one count of possession of such material. The offences are alleged to have occurred between August 29, 2009, and January 27, 2016, covering a period of nearly seven years.

It was revealed in court that Novak had downloaded a total of 689 indecent images of minors. Of these, a disturbing 272 images were classified as Category A, indicating the most severe level of indecency and harm. The court was informed that Novak’s guilty pleas were entered on an agreed basis, suggesting a level of cooperation or acknowledgment of guilt in the case.

Following the plea, Judge Hughes decided to adjourn the case to allow for further preparation. He ordered the probation service to prepare a pre-sentence report, which will help determine the appropriate punishment for Novak. The defendant was granted bail and is scheduled to return to court on Wednesday, February 22, to learn his sentencing outcome.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and judicial authorities in Cumbria to combat the distribution and possession of child abuse images, emphasizing the serious consequences faced by those found guilty of such offenses.