GAVIN THORN SKELMERSDALE PHYSIOTHERAPIST SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX IMAGE POSSESSION

In July 2012, a disturbing case emerged involving Gavin Thorn, a physiotherapist based in Skelmersdale, who faced serious legal consequences after being found guilty of possessing indecent images of children. The case unfolded when police officers executed a search warrant at Thorn’s residence in Kestrel Mews, Skelmersdale. During the raid, law enforcement officials seized his personal computer, which was subsequently subjected to detailed forensic analysis.

Experts examining the device uncovered a troubling collection of digital material—specifically, a total of 221 indecent images. The court was informed that the majority of these images fell into the least severe category of illegal content. However, there were also 39 images classified as being in the second most serious category, indicating a higher level of severity. Additionally, analysts discovered a single computer-generated image depicting child abuse, which heightened the concern surrounding the case and underscored the disturbing nature of the material found.

Gavin Thorn, aged 48 and residing in Kestrel Mews, pleaded guilty to 24 counts of possessing indecent images of children on April 20 of the previous year. The case was brought before Liverpool Crown Court, where Judge John Phipps presided over the sentencing hearing. During his remarks, the judge highlighted Thorn’s apparent addiction to internet pornography, describing it as an unhealthy compulsion that required intervention. Judge Phipps emphasized the moral reprehensibility of viewing such images, stating, “It is wholly wrong for anybody to go on the internet and look at these disgraceful images of abused and exploited children.”

In addressing Thorn’s background, the judge noted that he had no prior criminal convictions. Despite this, he made it clear that a custodial sentence would likely be short if prison was imposed, and that such a measure would not address the underlying issues. Instead, Judge Phipps ordered a three-year supervision order, which includes mandatory attendance at an internet sex offenders’ programme. The court also mandated that Thorn sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for a period of five years and imposed a ten-year Sexual Offences Prevention Order. This order restricts his internet access and aims to prevent further offending.

During the hearing, Thorn’s legal representative, Paul Becker, expressed remorse, stating that Thorn had initially failed to recognize the severity of his actions but now understood the gravity of his misconduct. Becker conveyed that Thorn, who cares for his blind partner, has faced numerous personal difficulties and has not been employed since August of the previous year. The lawyer added that Thorn is hopeful for rehabilitation and a chance to lead a more positive life, despite the damage to his reputation. The court’s decision reflects a serious stance on the possession of child abuse images, emphasizing both punishment and the importance of rehabilitation to prevent future offenses.