MICHAEL BRIER FROM COCKERMOUTH SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IMAGE OFFENSES IN CUMBRIA

In December 2016, a man from Cockermouth was brought to justice after being found guilty of possessing and creating illegal images depicting child abuse. Michael William Brier, aged 50, faced the court to answer for his actions, which involved a series of serious offences related to the possession and creation of indecent images of children.

Following a thorough investigation, Brier was charged with multiple counts, including three separate instances of making indecent images of children over an eight-month period leading up to July 2016. Additionally, he was accused of possessing a total of 257 illegal images of children, some of which were classified as the most severe category, Category A, indicating the highest level of harm and depravity. Furthermore, Brier was found to have in his possession an extreme pornographic image, adding to the gravity of his offences.

The case was brought to light after police executed a search warrant at Brier’s residence in Cockermouth. During the search, authorities discovered evidence on a laptop that linked Brier to the illegal activities. Detective Sergeant Robert Wyn Jones, prosecuting the case, explained that intelligence reports indicated Brier had used three different IP addresses to access the internet and download a significant volume of child abuse material.

When questioned by law enforcement officers, Brier admitted to his involvement, describing his actions as “stupid.” He revealed that he engaged in these activities late at night, often while his wife and children were asleep, staying up late to download the disturbing images. His behavior was characterized by police as a grave breach of trust and morality.

During the court proceedings, Brier’s defense lawyer, Brendan Burke, emphasized that Brier, who had no prior criminal record, had ceased his offending behavior abruptly and definitively. Burke stated that Brier had been advised to undertake a therapeutic course to address his issues and expressed hope that his client would be able to rebuild his relationship with his family.

Judge Peter Davies, presiding over the case at Carlisle Crown Court, addressed Brier directly, describing his offences as “unpleasant” and expressing disappointment. The judge remarked, “You might hang your head in shame,” as he sentenced Brier to a three-year community order. In addition to the community order, Brier was ordered to complete 100 hours of unpaid work and a rehabilitation requirement. He is also mandated to sign the sex offenders’ register and adhere to a sexual harm prevention order, which aims to restrict and monitor his future conduct to protect the public from further harm.