JOSEPH LOCK BARNSTAPLE CHURCH VOLUNTEER CAUGHT WITH CHILD PORNOGRAPHY AND DISTURBING STORIES

In April 2013, a disturbing case emerged involving Joseph Lock, a long-standing volunteer at a church in Barnstaple, who was found guilty of possessing and downloading indecent images of children, as well as printing graphic stories depicting horrific acts of violence and sexual abuse against minors.

Lock, residing at Rackfield Court in Barnstaple, was initially scrutinized after church leaders at the Grosvenor Church discovered suspicious internet searches on a church laptop. The searches included terms such as "pre-teen Asian nudists," which prompted immediate concern and subsequent police involvement. The church staff, concerned about the nature of these searches, contacted law enforcement authorities, leading to a police investigation that uncovered more alarming evidence.

During a thorough search of Lock’s residence, law enforcement officers seized his laptop, mobile phone, and printed materials. The investigation revealed that Lock had downloaded a total of 61 indecent photographs of children, classified as Category One images—considered the least severe of the four categories of such material. Additionally, 43 prohibited images, which included drawings or graphics, were also discovered. These images and files painted a disturbing picture of Lock’s online activity.

Further examination uncovered a collection of morbid stories and graphic writings describing acts of rape, torture, dismemberment, and even cannibalism involving children. Although these stories were not directly included in the charges, the prosecution argued that they were relevant to understanding Lock’s disturbing interests and behavior.

Lock admitted to downloading the images onto his devices and explained that he had printed the stories out of morbid curiosity. He also acknowledged responsibility for the images found on his mobile phone, which included 51 indecent images and 43 prohibited images. Lock claimed that the images on his phone had been sourced from Google, and he expressed that his interest in the stories and images was driven by a morbid fascination rather than any intent to exploit or harm children.

During the court proceedings, the prosecution, represented by Karen Ball, highlighted that Lock’s criminal record was clean prior to this incident. The defense, led by Lawrence Overend, emphasized that Lock had no previous convictions and that he had been under investigation for approximately ten months, a period during which he was supervised in his church activities. The defense also pointed out that Lock no longer attended the church but still received support from the community.

In sentencing, Magistrate Judith Killen ordered Lock to complete a six-month community order with supervision and to pay a victim surcharge of £60. Additionally, Lock was subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), which included six conditions designed to restrict his behavior and contact with minors. He was also ordered to register as a sex offender for five years. Magistrate Killen warned Lock that breaching any of the conditions could result in more severe penalties and further court proceedings.

Overall, the case highlighted the serious nature of online child exploitation and the importance of vigilance within community institutions such as churches. Lock’s actions have brought to light the ongoing risks posed by individuals with hidden disturbing interests, and the legal consequences serve as a stark reminder of the need for strict monitoring and safeguarding measures to protect vulnerable children.