IAN COGLE FROM ACCRINGTON AND PRESTON CAUGHT WITH CHILD INDECENT IMAGES IN BOLTON

In a case that has drawn significant attention, Ian Cogle, a man originally from Accrington and Preston, was found guilty of possessing a large collection of indecent images of children. The incident took place in Bolton, where Cogle currently resides. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about his actions and past convictions.

Back in March 2014, Cogle was living in Bolton when authorities uncovered his possession of over 100 explicit photographs depicting children being sexually abused or posing in sexually explicit scenarios. Despite the severity of these images, Cogle maintained that he did not view the children as victims and believed he did not need to change his behavior. The images included some at the most serious level, showing children engaged in sex acts with adults.

The court heard that Cogle, aged 48, had a troubling history. He had previously served time for indecently assaulting a 10-year-old girl, and his criminal record included 35 prior convictions. In 1990, he was jailed for 15 months for the assault. His criminal background and the nature of his recent offenses painted a concerning picture for the authorities.

During the trial, it was disclosed that Cogle had used the internet to access these images while his partner was in bed at their home in Accrington. The police raid on his residence in May of the previous year resulted in the seizure of his computer equipment. Cogle claimed that the images appeared as pop-ups on his screen, suggesting he did not actively seek out or distribute the material.

The prosecution, led by Sarah Statham, emphasized the seriousness of the case, noting that the images included children participating in sex acts with adults. The police investigation confirmed that Cogle had not distributed or shared these images, but the possession itself was deemed highly serious.

In court, Cogle’s defense argued that he was aware his behavior was unacceptable and expressed willingness to accept help to address his issues. His barrister requested that, instead of imprisonment, the court consider a community order combined with a sex offenders’ program.

Judge Alistair Rumbelow, QC, sentenced Cogle to eight months in prison, suspended for two years. Additionally, he was ordered to undergo two years of supervision, sign the Sex Offenders Register, and adhere to a five-year Sex Offences Prevention Order. The judge acknowledged the exploitation of victims but noted that there was no evidence of distribution or exchange of images by Cogle.

It was also revealed that Cogle’s current residence in Bolton was not his first location of residence; he had previously lived in Preston and Accrington, where he was known to have committed other offenses. His case underscores ongoing concerns about individuals with a history of sexual offenses and their access to explicit material, highlighting the importance of vigilant law enforcement and judicial oversight.