GARY TITCHENER FROM ALVASTON JAILED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY IN DERBY

In May 2013, a disturbing case unfolded involving Gary Titchener, a 43-year-old resident of Alvaston, who was sentenced to six months in prison after being found guilty of possessing and downloading a vast collection of indecent images and videos depicting children. The investigation was initiated when police officers executed a search warrant at Titchener's residence on Spencer Street, Alvaston, uncovering three laptops that contained a staggering total of 3,067 illicit images.

These images, which ranged from less severe to the most extreme categories, were collected over a period spanning from November 2008 to June 2012. The authorities classified the content from category one to five, with the latter representing the most disturbing and severe material. During police interviews, Titchener admitted to the act of downloading these indecent images, expressing a realization of the gravity of his actions only after the devices had been seized.

At Derby Crown Court, Judge John Gosling presided over the case and emphasized the seriousness of such offenses. He described the crimes as 'revolting' and highlighted the profound impact on victims, noting that these children, once grown, are unable to erase the images from their past, which continue to haunt them. The judge also pointed out that individuals like Titchener fuel the demand for such material, which perpetuates the cycle of abuse.

Judge Gosling stated that he felt compelled to impose a custodial sentence to fulfill his duty to the public, reflecting the gravity of the offense. Prosecutor Sarah Slater detailed the police operation, including the date of the search on June 12, and confirmed the range of the images found on the laptops. She also noted Titchener's admission during police questioning.

In mitigation, Dean Bower, representing Titchener, referenced a pre-sentence report from the probation service that explained the circumstances leading to the possession of the images. However, he chose not to elaborate further in open court.

As part of his sentence, Titchener will be subject to a sexual offences prevention order upon release, which grants police the authority to monitor his internet activity at any time. Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for up to seven years. The court also imposed a lifelong ban preventing him from working with children, underscoring the severity of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to society.