JAMES ROSE OF CHRISTCHURCH INVOLVED IN CHILD PORNOGRAPHY SCANDAL AT CHANNEL EXPRESS

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Christchurch community and the aviation industry, James Rose, a pilot associated with Channel Express, has been convicted and sentenced for possessing indecent images of children. The incident, which came to light following his arrest in 2002 as part of the international police operation known as Operation Ore, has raised serious questions about the conduct of individuals in positions of responsibility within the airline.

James Rose, aged 37 and residing on Albion Road in Christchurch, was sentenced to nine months in prison after pleading guilty to 16 counts of possessing indecent images of minors. The court was informed that Rose had downloaded these images from the internet, a revelation that has caused considerable public concern. District Judge Alec Ormerod emphasized that Rose would be required to serve half of his sentence in custody and would also need to register on the sex offenders' register for a period of five years.

Rose's background includes working as a general practitioner and serving in the accident and emergency department at Poole Hospital. His solicitor, Andy Pitt, expressed remorse on his behalf, stating that Rose regretted his actions and was genuinely sorry for what had transpired. During the proceedings, Rose also requested that 142 similar offences be taken into consideration, highlighting the extent of his alleged misconduct.

The arrest and subsequent conviction have sparked a debate about the oversight and conduct of airline personnel. Channel Express, based at Hurn, has chosen not to publicly comment on whether Rose has been dismissed from his position. Rob Trayhurn, the company's health and safety manager, stated, “Obviously we are aware of what happened at the court case and the internal proceedings will go on in light of that. It really is a matter between ourselves and Captain Rose.”

Supporters and colleagues of Rose appeared at Bournemouth Magistrates’ Court during his sentencing, offering their backing. When questioned about the presence of several pilots from Channel Express at the court, Mr. Trayhurn clarified that they were not representing the airline but were simply friends of Captain Rose. He emphasized that their attendance was incidental and not an official show of support from the company.

Meanwhile, questions remain about Rose’s professional standing. Despite claims from his solicitor that he had de-registered from the General Medical Council following his arrest, a GMC spokesperson confirmed to the Daily Echo that Rose was still listed on the register, adding to the controversy surrounding his case. The incident continues to cast a shadow over the reputation of Channel Express and raises broader concerns about safeguarding and vetting procedures within the airline industry in Christchurch.