GARETH CROOK FROM CHORLEY INVOLVED IN CHILD ABUSE IMAGE CASE AFTER HEROIC CHORLEY PARK RESCUE

In a development that has shocked the local community of Chorley, Gareth Robert Crook, a man once celebrated for his heroic actions, has now admitted to possessing and creating indecent and extreme images of children. Crook, who previously gained recognition for his bravery in saving a young girl’s life, is now facing serious allegations related to child exploitation.

On January 2008, Crook, then 37 years old and a former soldier with the Royal Artillery, was hailed as a hero after he intervened in a brutal attack in Astley Park, Chorley. During that incident, he found 14-year-old Jessica Knight bleeding heavily from a neck wound after being viciously assaulted. Crook, who was cycling through the park at the time, quickly responded by removing his hat and placing it behind Jessica’s head to stabilize her. Using his glove, he applied pressure to her neck wound to stem the bleeding, actions that likely saved her life. His quick thinking and medical training played a crucial role in preventing further tragedy, and his efforts were publicly praised.

Following the incident, Crook’s heroism was recognized by the community and the authorities. The trial judge, Anthony Russell QC, acknowledged Crook’s actions as instrumental in leading to the arrest of the attacker, Kristofer Beddar, a 21-year-old man from Adlington, who was convicted of attempted murder and sentenced to life imprisonment. Beddar was taken into custody after his own mother, Marion, reported his confession to the police. During the trial, Crook was awarded £500 from public funds for his bravery, and he received several accolades, including the Pride of Lancashire Award in 2010 and a Chorley Smile Award.

However, the narrative surrounding Crook took a dark turn as he appeared in Preston Crown Court to face charges related to child exploitation. He admitted to seven counts of making indecent photos of a child, with the images dating from May 7, 2013, to March 24, 2014. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to two counts of possessing extreme images of a child, with the material being dated between December 2012 and November 16, 2013. Crook’s legal proceedings were scheduled for sentencing, which was to be conducted via a video link from Forrest Bank Prison in Manchester, where he is currently detained. However, the hearing was postponed until the following Friday, as technical issues prevented the video link from proceeding.

Despite his previous reputation as a hero, Crook’s involvement in such heinous crimes has cast a shadow over his legacy. The case continues to unfold as authorities prepare for the upcoming sentencing, which will determine the extent of his punishment for these serious offenses. The community of Chorley, which once celebrated his bravery, now faces the complex reality of his alleged crimes, prompting discussions about the duality of human character and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding children.