GLENN BRIGGS FROM HALESTEAD ESCAPES JAIL DESPITE HORRIFIC COLLECTION OF CHILD INDECENT IMAGES

In October 2017, a disturbing case emerged involving Glenn Briggs, a man with a history as a police officer, who was found to possess an extensive and repulsive collection of child indecent images. The authorities uncovered over 1,000 such images on Briggs’ computer, including some of the most severe and illegal types, such as vile photographs of children, an illegal cartoon depiction, and extreme pornography.

Briggs, aged 50 and residing on Cherry Tree Close in Halstead, had initially denied four counts of downloading indecent images. However, after a trial at Chelmsford Crown Court, a jury found him guilty of these charges. The evidence presented was overwhelming, revealing a disturbing pattern of illegal activity spanning from 2013 to 2015.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Emma Peters addressed Briggs directly, emphasizing the gravity of his actions. She stated, “What those images portray is child abuse and those who view them fuel the trade which causes children to be abused, which is why the courts take such cases very seriously. It is so prevalent now, and it is heartbreaking that so many children worldwide are subjected to abuse for the gratification of individuals like you.”

Judge Peters further explained that law enforcement agencies are well aware when such images are accessed, leading to swift investigations and arrests. She highlighted the tragic reality that many individuals involved in this trade are caught, yet the damage inflicted on innocent children remains profound.

Addressing Briggs personally, the judge remarked, “You have lost your good character. You have been a proud working man throughout your life, first as a policeman and then as an IT consultant. But now, your reputation is in tatters, and you are likely to lose your job. I urge you to come to terms with the jury’s verdict and accept responsibility for your actions.”

In light of the evidence, Briggs was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years. The court also ordered him to complete 240 hours of unpaid community work and placed him under a 12-month supervision order. Additionally, Briggs will be required to register as a sex offender for the next ten years and will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order.

The court heard that Briggs faces significant personal and financial consequences. He is expected to lose his employment at an IT firm due to the proceedings and is currently in the process of selling his house to settle debts amounting to approximately £40,000. The case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the distribution and possession of illegal images of children, and the severe repercussions faced by those caught engaging in such heinous activities.