LEE COOKE FROM BARNSTAPLE ADMITS CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES IN NORTH DEVON COURT

In a case that has shocked the local community of Barnstaple and the wider North Devon area, Lee Cooke, a 31-year-old graphic designer residing at The Copse, Roundswell, was brought before Exeter Crown Court to face serious allegations related to child pornography. The proceedings revealed that Cooke had engaged in the illegal and highly disturbing activity of searching for and creating explicit material involving minors, which he kept for his own sexual gratification.

The investigation into Cooke’s activities was initiated after a concerned website owner reported that his online platform had been compromised by individuals distributing child pornography. This report prompted law enforcement authorities to launch a detailed inquiry into the matter. Through meticulous digital forensics and tracking, police were able to identify Cooke as the suspect behind the illegal content.

Armed with a search warrant, officers executed a raid on Cooke’s residence in Barnstaple. During the search, they seized multiple electronic devices, including computers, hard drives, and video tapes. Forensic analysis of these items uncovered a disturbing collection of over 100 images and video clips depicting child abuse. Some of the footage was recorded using covert cameras that Cooke had clandestinely installed in his bathroom and even from the window of his home, indicating a disturbing level of voyeurism.

When questioned by investigators, Cooke was forthcoming and admitted to his involvement. Prosecutor Emily Pitts stated that Cooke confessed to engaging in these activities solely for his own sexual pleasure, and he claimed that he was unaware of the victims’ identities or that they were minors. His candid admissions played a significant role in the case.

During the court hearing, defense lawyer David Sapiecha highlighted that Cooke’s case could potentially be addressed through rehabilitative measures. He pointed to reports suggesting that with appropriate intervention, Cooke could work through his issues and reintegrate as a more productive member of society.

Ultimately, Cooke pleaded guilty to ten counts related to child pornography. The court sentenced him to four months in prison, but this sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed further offenses within that period. Additionally, Cooke was placed under a supervision order for two years and was mandated to attend a sex offender group programme to address his behavioral issues.

Furthermore, Cooke was subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO). This order prohibits him from downloading any child images from the internet, restricts him from contacting children under 16 unless supervised by an adult aware of his convictions, and grants police the authority to access his home at designated hours to monitor his computer use. He was also ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of seven years.

In delivering the sentence, Judge Philip Wassall emphasized the severity of the case despite the relatively small number of images involved. He noted that 41 of the images depicted particularly serious abuse of children. The judge acknowledged the pre-sentence report, which indicated that treatment and intervention could help Cooke address his sexual distortions, and he recognized that this was Cooke’s first appearance before the court, offering a chance for rehabilitation.