PHILIP ROGERS FROM KEYNSHAM AND WELLS BANNED AFTER CHILD PORN OFFENCES IN BRISTOL AND BATH

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the local communities of Keynsham, Wells, and Bath, Philip Rogers, a former employee of Wessex Connect, has been convicted of possessing child pornography. The incident came to light after a work colleague discovered an illegal collection of images on a disk found in the Bristol office where Rogers was employed.

Rogers, aged 55 and residing in Wells, Somerset, was arrested following this discovery. The colleague, who was attempting to play music on a computer at the Roseberry Road depot in Bath—where Rogers used to work—accidentally uncovered the disturbing content. The disk contained numerous indecent images depicting children being sexually abused, prompting immediate police involvement.

Subsequently, the police launched an extensive investigation. During the inquiry, authorities raided Rogers' home and seized several computers, including some belonging to Wessex Connect. Despite thorough examinations, no evidence of illegal activity was found on the company's computers. However, Rogers' personal devices revealed his involvement in the offences committed in late 2009.

It was revealed that Rogers had admitted to 11 counts of making indecent images of children in July of the previous year. Despite this admission, legal proceedings faced delays, and he was not sentenced until recently at Bristol Crown Court. The case was adjourned for a 'Newton hearing' in February to determine the specifics of his sentencing.

Finally, last Friday afternoon, Judge Mark Horton delivered his verdict. Rogers was sentenced to a three-year community order, which includes mandatory supervision by probation services and the requirement to complete 60 days on a sex offenders' rehabilitation course. Additionally, Rogers was ordered to sign the sex offender register for five years and was prohibited from working with children under the age of 16. His laptop, which had already been confiscated, is set to be destroyed. The maximum penalty for possessing indecent images of children is five years in prison.

It is understood that Rogers' offences occurred in late 2009, and his secret was uncovered when a colleague mistakenly believed a disk would contain music, only to find it was filled with disturbing images. The colleague promptly contacted the police, but due to procedural delays, it took over 18 months for the case to reach court.

Wessex Connect, the company Rogers worked for, confirmed that he has not been employed there since last July. The regional director, Russell Barrington-Crow, stated, 'Philip Rogers no longer works for the company, and has not done so since last July.' The company did not suspend Rogers immediately upon his arrest but did suspend him after his admission of guilt in July 2012.

This case underscores the serious nature of child exploitation crimes and highlights the importance of vigilance and swift action in protecting vulnerable children from harm.