CLACTON MAN GEOFFREY OTTAWAY CAUGHT VIEWING HORRIFIC CHILD INDECENT IMAGES IN ESSEX

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, Geoffrey Ottaway, a 73-year-old resident of Sladburys Lane, has been linked to the viewing of highly disturbing indecent images of children. The allegations against Ottaway came to light during a court hearing at Colchester Magistrates’ Court, where he admitted to possessing and viewing a significant number of illicit images.

According to the prosecution, Ottaway was found to have viewed nine images classified as Category A, which are considered the most severe and disturbing. In addition to these, he also confessed to viewing 15 images categorized as Category B, and a further 70 images classified as Category C. These categories reflect the increasing severity and explicitness of the content, with Category A representing the most heinous material.

Andrew Young, the prosecutor representing the Crown, emphasized the gravity of the charges during the hearing. He stated that the case was of such seriousness that it warranted a transfer to Crown Court for sentencing, as the magistrates’ powers were deemed insufficient to impose an appropriate penalty. Young also highlighted Ottaway’s criminal history, noting a very old conviction from 1991 for theft, but no recent convictions related to similar offenses.

During the proceedings, Ottaway admitted to three counts of making indecent images of children and two counts of possessing such photographs. Despite the severity of the allegations, he was granted unconditional bail, allowing him to remain free until the next court appearance.

The case has been scheduled for a hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday, September 24, where a more comprehensive sentencing will take place. The community and authorities alike await the outcome, which will determine the legal consequences for Ottaway and serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing fight against child exploitation and abuse in the region.