MARK BATEMAN FROM BRADWELL SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX IMAGE OFFENSES IN SHOCKING CASE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Bradwell, Mark Bateman, aged 38, was found guilty of possessing and sharing indecent images of children. The incident came to light after police executed a search at his residence shortly after midnight on March 18, 2021.

During the police investigation, officers seized Bateman’s mobile phone and questioned him about the contents. Prosecutor Caroline Harris revealed that Bateman claimed he was attempting to become a 'paedophile hunter,' a controversial activity involving trying to catch individuals involved in child exploitation. However, the evidence uncovered painted a far more troubling picture.

According to the prosecution, Bateman admitted to viewing adult pornography on his phone but also possessed seven images of children classified as Category A, which denotes the most serious type of indecent images. Additionally, there were three accessible images and six inaccessible images categorized as Category C. Notably, one of the Category C images had been shared by Bateman on March 10, 2021.

Bateman explained that he obtained these images through internet searches, specifically using the term 'teen,' and justified sending one of the images to someone else as a means of maintaining their interest. He firmly denied any sexual interest in children, asserting that his actions were part of his misguided attempt to become a paedophile hunter.

Despite his claims, the court found his actions to be serious violations. Bateman, who resides on Moorthorne Crescent in Bradwell, was convicted of possessing Category A indecent images of children, possessing Category C images, and distributing a Category C image.

Judge Graeme Smith addressed the court, emphasizing the severity of such offenses. He remarked, “Cases of this nature come before the court every single day of the week. There is an epidemic of child pornography in this country at the moment online.” The judge acknowledged Bateman’s explanation but pointed out the irony that his attempt to become a paedophile hunter had instead led him to become involved in child exploitation himself.

He further stated, “You have come into possession of images of children that are prohibited images. Some are of the most serious category. They are not of very young children but they are of children, and that is why you have committed these offences.” The fact that Bateman distributed one of the images added to the gravity of his crimes.

In sentencing, Judge Smith imposed a seven-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months. Additionally, Bateman was ordered to complete 25 days of rehabilitation activities and perform 100 hours of unpaid work. A sexual harm prevention order was issued against him for ten years, and he was placed on the sex offenders’ register for the same duration. The court also ordered that his phone be seized and retained as evidence.

This case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding online child exploitation and the importance of vigilance and strict legal action to combat such heinous crimes.