PETER BURGE CAUGHT IN WESTON-SUPER-MARE FOR PHOTOGRAPHING GIRLS AT CRIBBS CAUSEWAY

In December 2008, a disturbing incident unfolded involving Peter Burge, a resident of Weston-super-Mare, who was caught engaging in inappropriate and illegal activities at the popular shopping centre, Cribbs Causeway. The case drew significant attention when a vigilant mother noticed Burge secretly taking photographs of her daughter and other young girls within the premises, prompting immediate concern and a report to the police.

According to court proceedings at Bristol Crown Court, Burge had concealed a digital camera within his clothing, which he used to covertly capture images of children. His actions did not go unnoticed, and he was swiftly identified and reported by the mother, leading to police intervention. During a subsequent search of Burge’s former residence located on Tamar Road in Weston-super-Mare, authorities uncovered two laptop computers. These devices contained a disturbing collection of 252 indecent images and video clips depicting children, which further implicated him in the exploitation of minors.

At the time of the incident, Burge, aged 33, had already moved out of his family home in Weston-super-Mare. He now resides on Bristol Road in Bridgwater. During police interviews, Burge revealed that he had a specific fetish for females wearing boots. He admitted to having an interest in girls aged from six years old to middle-aged women, and he confessed to taking photographs of young girls from behind as they ascended escalators in public places.

Burge faced multiple charges, including seven counts of making an indecent photograph or pseudo-photograph of a child. His actions, which spanned over four years, culminated in his arrest at Cribbs Causeway on March 26 of that year. The court heard that Burge had been viewing sexual images of young girls for an extended period before his capture.

In sentencing, Burge received a 20-week prison term, which was suspended for two years. The court also ordered that he be placed under supervision for two years, with the condition that he attend a sex offender rehabilitation program. Additionally, he was mandated to register as a sex offender for seven years and was subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which restricts his access to children until further notice.

Prosecutor Julian Howells emphasized the severity of Burge’s actions, highlighting the prolonged period during which he had been viewing and collecting such images. Defense lawyer Paul Grumbar acknowledged that Burge was aware of his problematic behavior but believed he would be reported if he sought help voluntarily. The court’s decision reflects the serious nature of his offenses and the ongoing measures to prevent further harm.