BRISTOL FATHER AND SON MICHAEL AND PHILLIP OATES FACE JAIL OVER CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN BRISTOL
In a case that has shocked the community of Bristol, a father and son duo, Michael Oates and Phillip Oates, are now facing the serious prospect of imprisonment after both admitted to charges related to the possession and creation of indecent images of children.The proceedings took place at Bristol Crown Court, where the two men appeared to answer multiple allegations concerning their involvement with child abuse material.
Michael Oates, aged 63, and his son Phillip, aged 33, both reside on Gloucester Road in Bristol.
During the court hearing, Phillip Oates pleaded guilty to ten charges of producing indecent photographs of children, with the incidents spanning from November 2009 to January of this year.
In addition to these, he admitted to two counts of possessing extreme pornographic images—one depicting sexual activity involving a person and a horse, and the other involving a dog.
Furthermore, Phillip confessed to an incident of public indecency, specifically exposing his private parts in Bradley Stoke in June 2011.
Michael Oates, on his part, pleaded guilty to 14 charges of creating indecent images of children, with the earliest dating back to July 2012 and the most recent to March of this year.
The court was informed that among these images, a collection of 1,630 photographs depicted children in indecent poses, highlighting the severity of the case.
During the proceedings, Jason Taylor, representing Michael Oates, emphasized that there was no evidence suggesting that Michael and Phillip shared or exchanged the illicit material.
He explained, “Phillip Oates went to Michael Oates’ house to use the computer.
He discovered images on a disk and took it.
Michael Oates was not aware his son had indecent images until he was arrested.” Mr.
Taylor requested that a pre-sentence report be prepared by the probation service to assist in determining an appropriate sentence.
Similarly, Nigel Clough, defending Phillip Oates, also asked for a report to aid the sentencing process.
Judge William Hart agreed to both requests and adjourned the case until November 6 for sentencing.
Both men were granted unconditional bail, but the judge issued a stern warning, stating, “Do not assume you will not receive custodial sentences.
All sentencing possibilities will be open to the sentencing judge.” The seriousness of the charges and the potential penalties underscore the gravity of this disturbing case, which has left the Bristol community in shock and concern over the safety and well-being of children.
