LEE FORSTER FROM DALTON-IN-FURNESS SENTENCED FOR CHILD INDECENCY IMAGES IN SOUTH CUMBRIA

In a case that has shocked the local community of Dalton-in-Furness and the wider South Cumbria area, Lee Steven Forster, aged 23, was brought before Carlisle Crown Court to face serious charges related to the possession and creation of indecent images of children. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about the nature and extent of his offenses, which have raised concerns about the safety and well-being of vulnerable minors in the region.

Lee Forster, a resident of Thornton Park in Dalton-in-Furness, admitted to five separate charges during the hearing. These included three counts of producing indecent photographs of children, which he committed between January and July of the previous year. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to possessing criminal images, along with a further charge of possessing a prohibited image of a child. The evidence presented in court indicated that a total of thirteen illegal photographs of minors had been discovered on his personal laptop. Of these images, seven were classified as Category A, signifying the most severe level of illegal content, highlighting the gravity of his actions.

Despite the serious nature of the offenses, Forster was described in court as a “vulnerable young man suffering some difficulties.” It was noted that he had a supportive family and partner, which could play a role in his rehabilitation. The court was informed that he would benefit from assistance provided by the probation service, aimed at addressing his behavior and preventing future offenses.

Recorder Andrew Shaw, who presided over the case, sentenced Forster to a three-year community order. This order includes a requirement for him to undergo rehabilitation and participate in a sex offender group work course. Furthermore, Forster is mandated to register as a sex offender for a period of five years and must adhere to a strict sexual harm prevention order that will remain in effect indefinitely. The judge emphasized that this approach was intended both as a form of punishment and as a means to facilitate his rehabilitation.

In his remarks, Recorder Shaw stated, “This is going to be the best way to punish you and to rehabilitate you. You plainly need help. It is my intention that you should get it.” The case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and judicial authorities in South Cumbria to combat the distribution and possession of illegal images of children, and to protect the community from individuals who pose a risk to minors.