JAMES MERCER OF KIRKBY FACES PRISON AFTER CHILD SEX ABUSE IMAGE OFFENCES IN LIVERPOOL
A convicted paedophile who amassed nearly 2,000 images of child sex abuse has been told he could face a prison sentence.James Mercer, 41, was previously issued a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) in 2013 after being caught downloading indecent images of children.
This 10-year order restricted his internet access unless he maintained and presented his browsing history for police inspection.
During a routine check of his computer equipment at Liverpool Crown Court, officers uncovered a disturbing collection of indecent material.
Mercer, from Ashburn Avenue, Tower Hill, Kirkby, later admitted to possessing 1,997 indecent images of children.
He was charged with downloading these images between May 16, 2018, and March 17, 2021.
He pleaded guilty to downloading 368 Category A images—those involving the most serious offenses such as child rape—along with 323 Category B and 1,306 Category C images.
Additionally, Mercer admitted to possessing seven prohibited animated images of children.
Prosecutor Jonathan Duffy clarified that Mercer was not in breach of his SOPO at the time of the hearing because he had not attempted to conceal his search history.
Mercer, who appeared in court wearing a black coat, spoke only to confirm his personal details; he had long grey hair and a beard.
Defence lawyer Charles Lander explained that a previous court hearing was adjourned so the defence could obtain a psychiatric report.
This report was to be shared with the Probation Service to prepare an addendum to Mercer’s existing pre-sentence report.
However, the court was informed that the psychiatric report had only just been received by the Probation Service today.
In response, Mr.
Lander announced he would seek an adjournment.
Judge Robert Trevor-Jones told Mercer that it would take approximately four weeks for the Probation Service to prepare the additional report.
The judge postponed sentencing until April 28 and released Mercer on bail until that date.
He also warned Mercer that the adjournment and the request for an addendum should not be interpreted as a sign of leniency, stating, "All options remain open and that includes immediate custody.
Is that clear?" Mercer, who responded faintly through his face mask with a "Yes," then left the courtroom shuffling with a black rucksack.
