JOHN PROUD FROM INNSWORTH CAUGHT VIEWING CHILD AND ANIMAL INDECENT IMAGES IN GLOUCESTER

In a case that has shocked the local community, 60-year-old John Proud, a resident of Rookery Road in Innsworth, was brought before Gloucester Crown Court to face serious allegations related to the possession and creation of indecent images involving children and animals. The proceedings revealed a disturbing pattern of behavior that was uncovered during a police search of Proud’s home, which was prompted by concerns over illegal online activity.

According to the prosecution, police officers found a total of 284 images on Proud’s computer, all classified as the least severe category of indecent images. In addition, they discovered a single image that fell into the most severe and extreme category of illegal content. These findings indicated a troubling engagement with illicit material, which Proud later admitted to police during questioning.

During the court hearing on Monday, Proud pleaded guilty to nine counts of making indecent images of a child and three charges of possessing extreme pornography. He openly acknowledged that he viewed these images approximately once or twice a week. Proud explained to authorities that he did not have a sexual interest in the children depicted, who ranged in age from eight to 12, but his motivations appeared to be driven by personal circumstances.

His legal representative, Sarah Jenkins, provided context for Proud’s actions, emphasizing his previously good character and long history of employment. Jenkins stated, “He was made redundant and has been unemployed for a long time. That coincided with his marriage breaking down. The loneliness and the need for some sexual gratification initially led him to adult pornography, and he inadvertently accessed illegal images. Over time, he began to seek out these images intentionally.” She also highlighted that Proud has maintained the support of his daughter and extended family throughout this difficult period.

In sentencing, Recorder Ben Browne QC addressed the gravity of the offenses, emphasizing the harm inflicted upon the victims. “All these young children were being severely abused at the time, and they are for people like you to look at them,” he stated. Despite the severity of the crimes, Proud was handed a six-month prison sentence, which was suspended for two years. Additionally, he was ordered to complete 120 hours of unpaid community work and participate in a 60-day rehabilitation program aimed at addressing his offending behavior.

Furthermore, Proud was mandated to sign the sex offenders register for the next seven years, a measure designed to monitor and prevent future offenses. The judge concluded with a stern warning, “Today you have very, very nearly gone to prison. Don’t think you have walked away from this scot-free,” underscoring the seriousness of his actions and the potential consequences he narrowly avoided.