EDWARD ALLEN FROM LEIGH AND OSWALDTWISTLE CAUGHT WITH CHILD ABUSE IMAGES

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Leigh and Oswaldtwistle, Edward Allen, a 47-year-old former nurse, was found to possess nearly 250 highly disturbing images depicting child abuse. The incident came to light when police executed a raid on his residence on Ash in Oswaldtwistle approximately eight months ago. During the investigation, authorities uncovered a collection of images that included children as young as eight years old, highlighting the severity and depravity of the material Allen had been viewing.

Allen, who had dedicated two decades of his life to the nursing profession before transitioning into running a gardening business, admitted to possessing and viewing indecent images of children. He was subsequently charged with three counts related to the possession of such images. The case was brought before Burnley Crown Court, where Allen appeared to face justice for his actions.

At the hearing, the court was informed that Allen attributed his perverted behavior to alcohol consumption. He claimed that his drinking problem was the primary reason behind his actions, which he described as a lapse in judgment. Allen, who now resides on Newton Road in Lowton, Leigh, expressed remorse but did not deny the charges.

Following his admission, Allen was sentenced by Blackburn magistrates to a three-year community order. This included three years of supervision and participation in an internet sex offenders programme. Additionally, he was ordered to sign the sexual offences register for a period of five years and was subject to a five-year sexual offences prevention order. Notably, Allen had no previous criminal convictions, which may have influenced the court's decision.

During the proceedings, James Heyworth, representing Allen, emphasized his client’s efforts to address his issues. He stated, “He has been, for most of his life, alcohol dependent. Since May, he has been clean of alcohol and still attends Alcoholics Anonymous.” The barrister also highlighted Allen’s professional background, noting his 20 years of service as a nurse before he shifted to managing a gardening business. Despite the disturbing nature of the case, the court’s focus remained on rehabilitation and ensuring public safety moving forward.