KEITH MILLS FROM ANDOVER SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENSES AT WINCHESTER CROWN COURT

In October 2010, Keith Mills, a resident of Old Winton Road in Andover, was brought before Winchester Crown Court to face serious charges related to the possession of indecent images of children. The case arose after Mills' girlfriend discovered a disturbing collection of illegal material on his laptop, prompting her to alert the authorities.

On October 11, 2009, Mills' partner accessed his computer and uncovered a cache of images that she found to be deeply shocking and disturbing. Her discovery led her to contact the police, who subsequently seized two computers from Mills' residence. An investigation revealed that Mills had downloaded and stored more than 6,000 indecent images of children, along with 76 moving pictures depicting similar material.

Among the videos found, four were classified as level five, which is considered the most severe category of child pornography. Notably, two of these films featured an 11-year-old boy, highlighting the grave nature of the offenses. The sheer volume and severity of the material underscored the seriousness of the case.

During the court proceedings, Mills pleaded guilty to seven counts of making indecent images of children. His defense attorney, Mark Sullivan, emphasized Mills' remorse and character, stating that Mills was ashamed of his actions. Sullivan described Mills as a man of previously good character who was in a relationship at the time of the offenses and characterized as shy. He added that Mills was eager to understand the reasons behind his behavior and expressed genuine remorse, acknowledging the harm caused by such activities.

Judge Guy Boney addressed Mills directly, emphasizing that these crimes are not victimless. He pointed out that the victims are the children depicted in the images and videos, and that individuals like Mills perpetuate the market for such material.

In sentencing, Judge Boney initially considered a 12-month prison term but reduced it to eight months due to Mills' early guilty plea and apparent remorse. The judge acknowledged Mills' good character and the fact that he sought help after the offenses came to light. Despite the recognition of his remorse, the judge emphasized that a custodial sentence was necessary to reflect the gravity of the crimes committed.