MICHAEL FIDDY FROM CANVEY RECEIVES COMMUNITY ORDER AFTER CHILD PORNOGRAPHY DISCOVERY

In September 2012, a man from Canvey, identified as Michael Fiddy, faced serious legal consequences after authorities uncovered a disturbing collection of nearly 300 illicit images depicting children. The investigation was initiated when Fiddy's wife, Gillian, discovered the incriminating material while they were in the process of divorce proceedings.

The images were stored on Fiddy's laptop, which was found at their shared residence at Thorney Bay Caravan Park. The police found a total of 291 images, including 48 classified at the most severe levels of abuse, some of which had been copied onto a disc. The discovery was made when Gillian retrieved her belongings from the home and promptly handed the laptop and disc over to law enforcement authorities.

During the court hearing at Basildon Crown Court, His Honour Judge John Lodge presided over the case. Fiddy, who is 40 years old and unemployed, pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to the possession of indecent images. Specifically, he admitted to downloading 208 images at the lowest level of severity, six at the second level, 29 at the third level, 45 at the fourth level, and three at the highest level of abuse. The offences took place between November 3 and December 10 of the previous year.

The judge expressed a strong disapproval of the nature of the images, stating, "I do not like the term ‘child pornography’. These are images of child abuse. Children are abused and photographed for the gratification of yourself and others—and suffer because of it."

Despite the gravity of the offences, Judge Lodge indicated a preference for a custodial sentence but ultimately decided that a community order was more appropriate to ensure Fiddy receives the necessary supervision and treatment. As part of his sentence, Fiddy was ordered to complete an extensive internet sex offenders treatment programme and will be subject to probation for three years. Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for five years.

Fiddy, who has no prior criminal record, was also subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which prohibits him from using a computer. The court's decision reflects the serious concern over his possession of such material and the need for ongoing monitoring and intervention to prevent future offences.