IAN HOPKINS FROM GOSPORT AND PLYMOUTH ESCAPES JAIL AFTER BEING CAUGHT WITH CHILD ABUSE IMAGES

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Gosport and Plymouth, Ian Hopkins, aged 48, was found to possess and download highly disturbing images depicting child abuse. The incident came to light when Hopkins took his computer to a repair shop in Plymouth in October 2014, citing slow performance issues. During the repair process, the technician discovered files containing explicit images of children, which included videos and photographs that were deeply disturbing and illegal.

One of the movies identified was approximately nine minutes long and contained four separate clips involving infants believed to be as young as two years old. The court was informed that these images were not only graphic but also contributed to the ongoing cycle of child exploitation and abuse. The files had suggestive names indicating their illicit nature, and Hopkins’s computer was equipped with file-sharing software and a program designed to delete internet history, raising suspicions about his intent and awareness of the content.

Further investigation revealed that Hopkins had purchased his computer in 2010 while residing in Gosport, Hampshire. He later moved to Plymouth in late 2013 after being signed off work due to anxiety. During the trial, the court heard that most of the illicit movies ranged in length from several minutes up to nine minutes, with some files indicating repeated viewing or downloading. Despite the severity of the content, Hopkins claimed he was unaware of the files and the search terms associated with them, which included references to indecent images of children. He insisted he had no knowledge of the files or their origins.

However, the jury took only two hours to reach a unanimous verdict, convicting Hopkins on all charges. He faced four counts of making indecent images of children and one count of creating a prohibited image, which was a cartoon depiction. The court was told that the images were partially downloaded, and the last search involving such content was recorded in 2013. Hopkins’s defense, represented by Emily Cook, argued that he was assessed as a low risk by a probation officer and that his actions were limited and not recent. She also highlighted that he was acting as a live-in carer for his elderly mother and suffered from anxiety and depression.

Despite these mitigating factors, Recorder Richard Stead emphasized the seriousness of the offences, stating, “The seriousness of these offences lies in the fact that by accessing these images you perpetuate the anguish and suffering of these children who become involved in this trade.” The judge sentenced Hopkins to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered him to be supervised by probation officers for 18 months. Additionally, Hopkins was issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which grants police the authority to monitor his internet use, and he was required to register as a sex offender. The court also ordered the destruction of his computer tower to prevent further access to illegal content.