BRISTOL EX-MAGISTRATE GEOFFREY BOTLEY JAILED OVER CHILD PORNOGRAPHY IN FRANCE

In a case that has shocked the local community, Geoffrey Botley, a former magistrate from Bristol, has been sentenced to prison for possessing and creating indecent images of children. The incident dates back to the early 2000s, with Botley admitting to 12 separate offences related to child pornography between October 2001 and December 2004.

At the time of the offences, Botley was living in the Bitton area of Bristol. The court was informed that he had accumulated more than 240 pornographic images and files stored on his computer and CDs at his residence. These materials were classified as serious, with two of the images falling into the most severe category of indecency.

The investigation was initiated after police received information from US-based authorities, which led to a search of Botley's home. During the raid, officers seized a laptop computer and several CDs. The hi-tech crime unit examined these items and uncovered a significant collection of indecent images, confirming the allegations against him.

Prosecutor Huw Rogers revealed that Botley had paid $29.95 (approximately £15) to access a website hosting such material, highlighting the deliberate nature of his actions. The court heard that the evidence was substantial and disturbing, prompting a serious legal response.

Following the police raid, Botley resigned from his position as a magistrate in Bristol within days, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. The court sentenced him to six months in prison and ordered him to register as a sex offender for a period of seven years. The case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat child exploitation and the importance of accountability for those involved in such crimes.

As of now, Geoffrey Botley is reported to be living in Villegly, France, far from his previous residence in Bristol, where his actions have brought significant legal and social repercussions.