JONATHAN ASHTON SPARED PRISON IN DERBY AFTER SEEKING THERAPY FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

In a case that has shocked the community of Derby, Jonathan Ashton, aged 36, narrowly avoided imprisonment after being found in possession of nearly 1,000 indecent images of children. The incident came to light when police executed a search at his residence on St Thomas Road, Derby, revealing a disturbing collection of illicit material stored on his computer.

Following his arrest, Ashton was taken into custody and faced charges related to the possession of child pornography. The police investigation uncovered a total of 995 images, which ranged from the least severe to the most serious categories. Of these, a significant majority—860 images—were classified as Category One, indicating the least harmful content, but nonetheless deeply troubling.

At his sentencing hearing held at Derby Crown Court, the court was informed that Ashton had taken steps to seek help for his behavior. His defense lawyer, Kevin Waddingham, emphasized that Ashton had paid for and undergone extensive cognitive behavioural therapy. Waddingham stated, “Once the allegations and the fact he had been behaving this way came to light, it was clear to him there was a serious problem. To his credit, he admitted it to his family and friends. He looked for help and he found it very quickly. They have been lengthy sessions over a long period.”

It was also noted that Ashton, who now resides on Fletcher Road in Beeston, found the therapy beneficial. The sessions reportedly helped him manage stress, which was identified as a potential trigger for his inappropriate behavior.

Judge John Burgess, presiding over the case, decided to suspend a four-month prison sentence for two years, citing Ashton’s proactive approach to treatment as a mitigating factor. The judge remarked, “The fact you sought therapy means you will avoid going to jail. You have done everything to try and put things right. You sought help and received therapy over the last year. This has now been hanging over you for 12 months.”

He further acknowledged the disturbing nature of the images found, but also highlighted Ashton’s remorse and good character, supported by references presented during the trial. The judge emphasized the gravity of child pornography, stating, “Child pornography on the internet exploits children. It degrades them and subjects them to appalling humiliation which may have a lasting and dreadful effect on their life.”

In addition to the suspended sentence, Ashton was ordered to pay costs amounting to £739. He was also subjected to a sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits him from carrying any photograph of a child under 16 without the explicit consent of the child's parent or guardian. The police investigation was initiated after an internet provider’s address registered to Ashton’s home was used to upload the illicit images, leading to a search of his property on February 1, 2011. During the search, three computer hard drives were seized, and Ashton was arrested and later interviewed, during which he made no comment. The police analysis confirmed the presence of the indecent images on his devices.

Overall, the case underscores the importance of addressing and rehabilitating offenders, even in cases involving serious crimes such as possession of child pornography. While Ashton’s proactive steps toward therapy played a role in his sentencing, the court reaffirmed the grave harm caused by such material and the need for ongoing vigilance and prevention.