GRIMSBY HOUSEMATES LUKE COLLYER AND SCOTT LARKINS CAUGHT WITH INDECENT IMAGES OF CHILDREN
In March 2017, two residents of Grimsby, identified as Luke Collyer and Scott Larkins, faced serious allegations after police uncovered indecent images of children on their personal computers.The incident unfolded when law enforcement officers executed a warrant at their shared residence in Grimsby, leading to the seizure of electronic devices that contained disturbing material.
During the court proceedings at Grimsby Crown Court, both men admitted to possessing indecent images of minors.
Luke Collyer, aged 34 and residing on Crescent Street in Grimsby, was found to have accumulated a total of 1,173 images, including 57 that were classified as extreme pornographic content.
These images spanned a period from October 2006 to January 2016, indicating a prolonged period of collection and viewing.
Among the material was a particularly disturbing video involving a horse, highlighting the severity of the content involved.
In his police interview, Collyer explained that he had accessed the dark web out of curiosity, a statement that the prosecution highlighted as indicative of his reckless behavior.
Prosecutor Timothy Savage emphasized the gravity of the offences, noting the vulnerability and age of the children depicted, as well as the organized manner in which the images were collected and stored.
The court was told that the offences were serious due to the nature of the content, the extended timeframe, and the number of images involved.
Representing Collyer, Laura Marshall stated that her client had no prior convictions and expressed remorse for his actions.
She also mentioned that Collyer was seeking support through a sexual offences treatment programme, citing his personal difficulties.
Judge Neil Davey QC addressed Collyer directly, warning him that his current lifestyle was unhealthy and likely to lead to further trouble.
The judge sentenced Collyer to a three-year community order, which includes participation in a sex offender treatment programme.
Additionally, Collyer was ordered to pay costs amounting to £425 and will be registered as a sex offender for five years.
Similarly, Scott Larkins, aged 35 and also from Grimsby, admitted to possessing indecent images of children between June 2013 and September 2014.
Prosecutor Savage revealed that Larkins had nearly 50 such images.
During police interviews, Larkins acknowledged viewing the images but denied that they depicted underage girls.
His solicitor, Laura Marshall, noted that Larkins recognized his wrongdoing, expressed remorse, and had cooperated fully with authorities.
Judge Davey pointed out that although Larkins and Collyer had been housemates, they did not share a close friendship.
Larkins was also sentenced to a three-year community order and was ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register for five years.
The judge emphasized the importance of rehabilitation, stating, “Both of you will have the benefit of the work and skills of those in the service in order to get on a sensible, law-abiding track.” As with Collyer, costs of £425 were imposed, underscoring the court’s stance on accountability and the seriousness of the offences committed in Grimsby.
