MATTHEW BARBER CAUGHT WITH CHILD PORN IN LANCASTER COURT

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Lancaster community, Matthew Lee Barber, aged 33, of Nairn Road, Lancaster, was brought before Preston's Sessions House Court to face serious allegations related to the possession and download of indecent images and movies involving children.

Court proceedings revealed that Barber had accumulated a disturbing collection of digital material, including a total of 267 images and three movies depicting child abuse. These illicit files were found to have been downloaded and stored over a period spanning from January 2017 to July 2020, highlighting a prolonged period of offending.

During the hearing, Barber admitted to three counts of making and downloading indecent images, with one of the movies classified as a Category A film, which is considered the most severe under law. Additionally, he confessed to possessing indecent photographs, further underscoring the gravity of the charges against him.

Judge David Potter delivered his verdict, emphasizing the seriousness of the crimes committed. As part of the sentence, Barber was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for a period of five years, a measure designed to monitor and manage his potential risk to the community. The court also imposed a three-year community order, which includes a 30-day rehabilitation activity aimed at addressing underlying issues.

Furthermore, Barber's laptop, which was used to download and store the illegal material, was confiscated and ordered to be destroyed to prevent further misuse. The judge also issued a sexual harm prevention order lasting five years, restricting Barber's access to certain online content and activities. A fine of £350 was imposed, to be paid within six months, as part of the court's punitive measures.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and judicial authorities to combat the distribution and possession of child exploitation material, and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and swift legal action in protecting vulnerable victims.