HENRY KING CAUGHT IN LIVERPOOL WITH VILE TODDLER ABUSE IMAGES
In April 2018, Liverpool Crown Court heard the disturbing case of Henry King, an 81-year-old widower from Liverpool who was found in possession of highly disturbing images depicting the abuse of young children.The court was told that King had used advanced internet software to download videos and photographs of toddlers being subjected to sexual assault, an act he claimed was driven by boredom.
During the sentencing, Judge David Aubrey, QC, addressed King directly, noting his isolated and lonely circumstances following the deaths of his sisters and his wife in 2007.
The judge questioned what his late wife might think if she were alive, especially considering the shame King expressed in a document he provided to the court, stating, “My good name is completely ruined, I completely hang my head in shame because of this.” The judge emphasized that the court had no doubt about the damage to King’s reputation and character.
The case originated from an investigation by Merseyside Police, which received intelligence leading to a search warrant executed at King’s residence in Oakhurst Close, Gateacre, on July 26 of the previous year.
Initially, King was hesitant to permit officers entry, but upon seeing the warrant, he complied and allowed the search to proceed.
During the search, police recovered computer equipment from his home.
King explained that he used his computer to access a website for images, denying any involvement with films or videos.
Forensic analysis of the seized computer revealed a disturbing collection: 46 videos and 30 images classified as Category A, the most serious level of indecency under law, along with 39 images rated as Category B and 48 as Category C.
These findings confirmed the possession of highly illegal material.
King was subsequently arrested and questioned by police.
He stated that his wife had died in 2007 and admitted that he was “bored most of the time.” Despite having no previous criminal record, King claimed that he used the website for “company” rather than for sexual gratification.
However, police investigators uncovered the presence of a specialized Tor web browser and a file-shredding program on his computer, indicating efforts to conceal his activities.
In court, King pleaded guilty to making and possessing 163 indecent images of children.
He was sentenced to nine months in prison, suspended for two years.
Additionally, he was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for ten years and was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which imposed strict restrictions on his internet use for the same period, aiming to prevent any further offenses.
