LYNEHAM PILOT MICHAEL JONES SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENSES

In April 2003, a serious criminal case emerged involving Flight Lieutenant Michael Jones, a resident of Lyneham, who was found guilty of possessing and creating indecent images of children. Jones, aged 41 and living at Fern Farm in Lyneham, was a respected pilot with an otherwise exemplary service record, but his reputation was severely tarnished by his involvement in this disturbing criminal activity.

According to court proceedings, Jones pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent pictures of a child and three counts of possessing such images. The case was heard at Swindon Crown Court, where Judge John McNaught delivered the sentence. The judge remarked, "A high price has already been paid as your reputation has been ruined and your punishment has begun," emphasizing the gravity of Jones's actions and their impact on his life.

The investigation was initiated after suspicions arose when items were sent to Jones that prompted further scrutiny. As part of the investigation, authorities conducted a search of Jones's mess room at RAF Lyneham, where they seized a computer, CD-ROMs, and videos. The initial examination was carried out by RAF police, but the case was subsequently handed over to Wiltshire Constabulary due to the discovery of a significant amount of obscene material.

During the investigation, law enforcement officials uncovered a large collection of illicit images stored on a CD-ROM, totaling approximately 470 images involving minors. While much of the material was not legally classified as prohibited, the investigation revealed numerous downloads from the internet depicting indecent images of children, which raised serious concerns.

Jones declined to participate in an interview with Wiltshire police but chose to plead guilty at the earliest opportunity in court. It was clarified that there was no evidence of distribution of the material, only possession and creation.

In his defense, lawyer Dingle Clark expressed regret over Jones's actions, highlighting his previously good character and service record. Clark stated, "It’s always a great pity and a matter of real regret that someone of good character comes before the court for the first time aged 41. The consequences of this are the shame he has heaped upon himself and those with whom he is attached are very considerable. Here is a man who, over more than 20 years, performed fantastic public service. As well as work in the community, he gave real, active service overseas. He is a brave man with huge talents."

As part of his sentence, Jones was placed on a two-year extended license, required to register as a sex offender for seven years, and ordered to pay costs amounting to £1,500 for his defense and £350 for prosecution. Additionally, his computer equipment will be seized and destroyed to prevent further misuse.

John Makinson-Sanders, a spokesperson for RAF Lyneham, confirmed that Jones had served at the station for 17 years and had participated in operations during the First Gulf War. Despite his military service, his criminal conviction has overshadowed his career and reputation, serving as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of such offenses.