KENNETH SHARPE FROM BLACKHALL CAUGHT WITH CHILD INDECENT IMAGES IN COUNTY DURHAM

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Blackhall, County Durham, Kenneth Sharpe, a 31-year-old man, has been found guilty of possessing indecent images of children. The incident came to light after police executed a search warrant at his residence on Lime Avenue on May 8, following intelligence reports received in April indicating that Sharpe was seeking material of a paedophilic nature online.

During the police operation, officers seized a total of 13 pieces of computer hardware from Sharpe’s bedroom. An investigation into the seized devices revealed a disturbing collection of images stored on his computer. Durham Crown Court was informed that Sharpe had amassed a total of 69 offending images, which included 56 still photographs and 13 moving images, all of varying degrees of severity. These images had been collected over a period stretching from June 2012 to October of the previous year, indicating a sustained pattern of offending behavior.

All the illicit images were stored within a file labeled “Kenneth Sharpe,” suggesting a level of premeditation and organization in his collection. The police findings also revealed that Sharpe had saved other images, some depicting himself and others focusing on children’s feet. However, these additional images were not part of the charges brought against him, and there was no evidence to suggest that Sharpe had distributed any of the material.

When questioned by authorities, Sharpe initially refused to respond, providing no explanation for his actions. Later, he was candid about his problematic behavior, acknowledging that he needed help. The court was told that Sharpe had expressed a willingness to plead guilty as soon as proceedings commenced, indicating some level of remorse or recognition of his wrongdoing.

During the sentencing hearing, Stephen Constantine, representing the defense, highlighted that Sharpe’s pre-sentence probation report demonstrated an understanding of his offending and a recognition of his issues. Constantine emphasized that Sharpe had been honest about his problems and appeared motivated to address them.

However, the presiding judge, Judge Robert Adams, did not overlook the seriousness of the case. In his remarks, he pointed out that Sharpe had openly admitted to an extreme attraction to children and that the images were for his own sexual gratification. The judge acknowledged Sharpe’s frankness in admitting his worrying obsessions, including his disturbing behavior of photographing himself in public, and recognized the need for professional help.

As part of his sentence, Sharpe was given a three-year community order, which includes supervision and mandatory attendance at a sex offender treatment program. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of five years. A sexual offences prevention order was also imposed, remaining in effect until further notice, to restrict his future activities and protect the community from potential harm.