JOHNATHAN WILLIAMSON FROM WATFORD CAUGHT AGAIN WITH CHILD INDECENT IMAGES IN ST ALBANS

In a disturbing case that highlights ongoing concerns about individuals with a history of possessing child abuse images, Johnathan Williamson, a 31-year-old resident of Clarke Way in Watford, has been found guilty of possessing indecent images of children for the second time. The incident unfolded after Williamson himself contacted police to request their presence at his home, ostensibly to facilitate the installation of a monitoring device on his new computer.

Williamson's prior conviction was handed down in June of the previous year, when he was sentenced for possessing child abuse images. As part of his sentence, he received a three-year Community Order and was subject to a five-year Sexual Offences Prevention Order. This order specifically prohibited him from accessing the internet unless the police installed software that would record and monitor his browsing activity, aiming to prevent further offenses.

According to the proceedings at St Albans Crown Court on a recent Friday, Williamson took the initiative to contact law enforcement at the beginning of December, claiming he was acquiring a new computer to search for employment opportunities online. Officers responded promptly and arrived at his residence on January 7 to install the risk management software. During their visit, Williamson attempted to conceal a computer tower, raising suspicions. When questioned about his internet activity, he claimed he was seeking work.

However, the examination of the computer revealed a disturbing cache of indecent images. A total of 71 such images were discovered, categorized into different levels of severity: 13 at Category A, which is considered the most serious, 39 at Category B, and 19 at Category C, the least severe. The images included not only photographs but also prohibited cartoon depictions involving sexual activity with children, which Williamson admitted possessing.

Williamson pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including possessing indecent images of children, possessing a prohibited cartoon image, and breaching the terms of his Sexual Offences Prevention Order. His defense lawyer, Victoria Ellis, explained that the images were downloaded on a single occasion, January 2, after Williamson had consumed half a bottle of vodka, which impaired his memory of the event. She emphasized that he was genuinely remorseful and had since been working six days a week as a cleaner to support himself.

Judge Michael Baker QC addressed the court, emphasizing the seriousness of the case and noting that Williamson had narrowly avoided a custodial sentence in the past. Ultimately, the judge sentenced him to six months in prison, suspended for two years, with an 18-month supervision period. Additionally, Williamson was ordered to attend a 60-day alcohol awareness program, complete 100 hours of unpaid community work, and pay costs of £500 along with a £100 victim surcharge. The judge made it clear that this would be Williamson’s final opportunity, stating, “You can be assured you will not get a further chance. Do you understand?” Williamson responded affirmatively, saying, “Yes sir. Thank you.”