PHILIP LEYLAND'S SHOCKING CHILD ABUSE IMAGE SCANDAL IN WIGAN

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Wigan, Philip Leyland, a 55-year-old man residing in West Mount, Orrell, was found guilty of possessing and creating indecent images of very young children involved in sexual abuse. The incident came to light after police executed a search warrant at his residence on Gathurst Lane, Shevington, on April 24 of this year.

During the police raid, officers discovered that Leyland had been using his computer not only for everyday family activities but also for viewing and copying highly disturbing images of child abuse. Leyland admitted to using peer-to-peer software to access these images without paying, a practice that facilitated his access to such illegal content. He further confessed that he would sometimes burn these images onto discs, which he would then watch on his large television screen, ostensibly to conceal his activities from his family.

Forensic experts examined Leyland’s computer and recovered a total of 25 images, including three videos, some of which were classified in the most serious category of child abuse material. These images depicted very young children engaged in various sexual acts, including bondage and penetrative activities involving both adults and other children. The court was told that Leyland had admitted to developing an unhealthy interest in such material over recent years.

Judge Andrew Menary, QC, presided over the case at Liverpool Crown Court. In his sentencing remarks, he emphasized the gravity of the offences, stating that although the number of images was not large, the content was particularly heinous. The judge highlighted that the production and distribution of such images involve the shocking abuse of children and that consumers like Leyland perpetuate this evil.

Judge Menary acknowledged Leyland’s remorse and insight into his actions, describing his case as a personal tragedy. Nevertheless, he made it clear that offences of this nature are regarded as extremely serious due to the inherent harm inflicted on children and the wider societal implications.

As a result, Leyland was sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for 12 months. He was also placed under supervision for a year, ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid community service, and required to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for seven years. The judge’s ruling aimed to reflect both the severity of the crime and the possibility of rehabilitation.

Sarah Phelan, prosecuting, confirmed that Leyland had no previous convictions and that he had pleaded guilty to three counts of making indecent images. The court heard that Leyland’s wife and daughter were not at home during the police raid, and Leyland admitted that his computer was used for normal family purposes but also for viewing illegal child abuse images. He explained that he would burn discs of the images to watch on his television and would delete the files afterward to prevent his family from discovering his activities.