GARY ASHWORTH FROM STOCKPORT CAUGHT WITH CHILD ABUSE IMAGES NEAR PRIMARY SCHOOL

In a disturbing case that has raised serious concerns about community safety and the protection of vulnerable children, Gary Ashworth, a 43-year-old resident of Stockport, was found to possess a significant collection of indecent images of minors. The incident came to light when authorities uncovered evidence linking Ashworth to accessing and storing illicit material involving children as young as eight years old.

According to court records, police received intelligence indicating that Ashworth’s computer had been used to access and download illegal content. A subsequent seizure of his device revealed a total of 72 images, which ranged in severity from level one to level four, with level five being the most severe. The images depicted children aged between eight and twelve engaged in sexual acts, and the investigation also uncovered internet searches for terms such as ‘pre-teen models’ and ‘pre-teen sex,’ suggesting premeditated intent.

Minshull Street Crown Court heard that Ashworth’s residence is located on Stirling Avenue in Hazel Grove, a suburb of Stockport. Alarmingly, his home is situated less than 150 meters from St Peter’s Primary School, raising concerns about the proximity of such a criminal offense to a location frequented by young children. Despite the gravity of his actions, Ashworth was not sentenced to prison. Instead, he received a three-year community punishment order that includes supervision requirements. Additionally, he is mandated to sign the sex offenders register for five years and participate in an internet sex offending programme.

During the court proceedings, prosecutor Adam Lodge stated that police had acted on intelligence that linked Ashworth to accessing indecent child websites. When apprehended, Ashworth, who is a father to a teenage son and daughter, reportedly expressed remorse, stating, “I have put at risk everyone and everybody I hold dear.”

It was also revealed that out of the 72 images found, 64 were classified as level one in terms of severity, indicating a lower level of harm but nonetheless representing a serious criminal offense. Ashworth’s defense attorney, Peter Malone, argued that his client’s initial online activity was seemingly innocent, involving adult pornography. Mr. Malone emphasized Ashworth’s remorse and shame, asserting that his client recognizes the foolishness of his actions and wishes to move past this chapter.

Furthermore, the court was presented with a letter from Ashworth’s wife, who is a teacher, underscoring the personal and familial impact of his conduct. Judge Adrian Smith, presiding over the case, highlighted the importance of the sentence as an alternative to incarceration, emphasizing the harm inflicted upon children exploited for sexual gratification. The judge concluded by reaffirming the seriousness of the offense and the need for ongoing supervision to prevent future harm.