LESLEY BOTHAM FROM NORRIS GREEN SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENSES IN SANDWAY CRESCENT

A court has dismissed the claims made by Leslie Botham, an 81-year-old resident of Norris Green, who insisted that he had 'accidentally downloaded' a vast collection of over 28,000 disturbing images involving children. The proceedings revealed that Botham was found in possession of a 'paedophile manual'—a troubling document containing instructions on how to sexually abuse minors—alongside numerous indecent images stored on his personal computers.

Prosecutor Sarah Holt provided details of the police search carried out on May 9 of the previous year at his home on Sandway Crescent. During the search, authorities uncovered a total of 1,157 images classified as Category A, which represent the most severe forms of abuse, including videos depicting a 12-month-old baby being assaulted. In addition, there were 730 images in Category B, 462 in Category C, and 666 computer-generated prohibited images. The police also found extreme pornographic content involving animals. Significantly, a further 25,329 images remained unexamined, as officers considered the seized data sufficient to proceed with charges.

Among the disturbing files discovered were those containing 'directions on where to find children' and practical guidance on how to sexually touch them. When questioned during police interviews, Botham claimed he 'didn't know what the material was' and attributed his actions to 'curiosity,' denying any sexual interest in children. His defense team argued for a reduced sentence, citing his advanced age, health problems, and remorse, suggesting that rehabilitation might be possible.

However, Judge Gary Woodhall was unequivocal in condemning Botham's actions. He emphasized that the images involved children as young as 12 months and up to 18 months old, and noted that many images remained uncategorized. The judge rejected Botham's assertion that the offenses were accidental, stating, 'That, in and of itself, disproves your assertion that this was accidentally finding material which you downloaded and then sought to delete. You claim not to have known what the material was. I reject that.'

As a result, Botham was sentenced to 20 months in prison, suspended for two years. The court also ordered him to complete a 30-day rehabilitation program, imposed a 10-year sexual harm prevention order, and mandated registration as a sex offender for ten years. The case highlights the severity of the crimes committed and the court's firm stance against such offenses, especially involving the exploitation of children.