BIDDLUPH PERVERT MATTHEW SLATER CAUGHT WITH CHILD ABUSE AND ANIMAL PORNOGRAPHY IN STOKE-ON-TRENT

In July 2017, Matthew Slater, a 23-year-old man from Biddulph, found himself at the center of a serious criminal investigation after authorities uncovered disturbing evidence on his computer. The investigation was initiated following a police raid on his residence, which took place on November 15 of the previous year. Officers from Stoke-on-Trent conducted the search at his home, and during the operation, Slater was arrested at his place of employment, Astra Zeneca in Macclesfield, where he was working at the time.

Prosecutor David Bennett detailed the findings to the court, revealing that law enforcement officials recovered a significant collection of digital storage devices, including an external hard drive, a laptop computer, and a USB stick. These devices were subjected to thorough examination, which uncovered a large number of illegal images and videos. The material included indecent images of children, with some depicting infants, as well as three images of an extreme pornographic nature involving animals engaging in sexual acts. The total collection comprised approximately 200 still images and 202 videos, with nearly half classified as Category A, indicating the most severe level of criminal content according to police standards.

During police interviews, Slater, who resides on Tunstall Road in Biddulph, chose to respond with 'no comment' to all questions. Despite this, he denied being a threat to children. Ultimately, he pleaded guilty to three charges of making indecent images of children and one charge of possessing extreme pornographic images involving animals.

The court heard that Slater's background was marked by a 'disturbing' upbringing, which may have contributed to his criminal behavior. In mitigation, lawyer Jason Holt argued that Slater had limited intimate relationships and instead sought sexual gratification through online platforms such as Tinder. Holt emphasized that Slater was a responsible father to two children, expressing his desire to be actively involved in their lives. However, Holt also highlighted the impact of the case on Slater's family, noting that his last partner and children had been subjected to vicious verbal attacks as a consequence of the proceedings. The lawyer suggested that a community order would be more beneficial than custodial sentences, helping Slater recognize and address his issues.

Judge David Fletcher delivered the verdict, imposing a three-year community order on Slater, which includes a 25-day rehabilitation activity requirement and participation in a program aimed at addressing sexual offending behavior. The judge condemned Slater's actions, stating, "You have pleaded guilty to these four offences which are not only serious but are also likely to have repercussions for you going forward. You have only yourself to blame for that." He further condemned the viewing of such images, emphasizing that it supports a global trade in the exploitation of children, which would not exist without offenders like Slater. The judge also issued a five-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, restricting Slater's access to devices capable of connecting to the internet. Additionally, Slater will be registered as a sex offender for five years, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

Earlier in May 2017, Slater had already admitted to three counts of making indecent images of children and possessing an extreme pornographic image during a hearing at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court. He was granted bail while awaiting sentencing, which would follow a report from the Probation Service assessing his suitability for rehabilitation. This case underscores the serious nature of his offenses and the ongoing legal consequences he faces for his actions.