JOHN MCCONNELL FROM STOKE SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IMAGES

In May 2017, John McConnell, a 53-year-old resident of Stoke, was sentenced to prison after authorities uncovered a significant collection of child abuse images on his computer. The police took action after executing a search warrant at his home in Brown Lees, which is located within Stoke. During the investigation, officers discovered a staggering total of 6,691 indecent images and videos depicting children, which McConnell had downloaded over a span of four years.

Prosecutor David Bennett detailed the findings, stating that the search, conducted on September 15 of the previous year, revealed 1,630 images and videos classified as Category A, indicating the most severe level of abuse material. Additionally, there were 521 images and videos categorized as B, and a further 4,540 images and videos classified as C, all involving children and infants. The authorities also found a history of online searches related to indecent images of children, suggesting premeditation and ongoing interest.

When questioned by the police, McConnell admitted to viewing images of babies up to 16 years of age but denied any involvement in distributing such material. The court was informed that these images had been downloaded between August 2012 and September 2016, highlighting a prolonged period of offending. Despite having no prior criminal record, McConnell pleaded guilty to three charges of making indecent photographs of children.

During sentencing, Judge Paul Glenn acknowledged McConnell’s age and previously unblemished character but emphasized the severity of his actions. The judge pointed out the large volume of Category A material, some of which depicted very young children, including babies and toddlers. He expressed skepticism about McConnell’s claim of no sexual interest in children, noting that the collection was meticulously organized into folders, which indicated a calculated approach. The judge underscored the disturbing reality that these images represented real children being exploited for the gratification of viewers like McConnell.

As part of his punishment, McConnell was issued a 10-year sexual harm prevention order. This order restricts him from engaging in a variety of activities involving children and vulnerable adults, aiming to prevent any future harm. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the distribution and possession of child abuse images, and the serious consequences faced by those found guilty of such offenses.