ROBERT WHITLOCK FROM STAFFORD CAUGHT WITH CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN SHOCKING CASE

In a disturbing case that has shocked the Stafford community, Robert Whitlock, a 35-year-old resident of Owen Walk, Stafford, was found to have downloaded an alarming number of child pornography images from the internet. The police executed a search warrant at Whitlock’s home in September 2011, leading to the discovery of a significant collection of illicit material.

According to Stafford Crown Court proceedings, Whitlock’s mother was the one who answered the door during the raid. Upon seeing the officers, Whitlock was inside the house and immediately acknowledged the situation by stating, “I’ve got a good idea what this is about – I’ve got a problem.” His candid admission highlighted his awareness of the severity of his actions.

Prosecutor Mark Rees detailed the findings from a forensic examination of Whitlock’s computer. The investigation uncovered at least 1,150 still images classified at the lowest level of severity, indicating they depicted child abuse. In addition, there were seven video files and two still images categorized at a higher level of severity, suggesting more explicit or severe content.

Whitlock, who pleaded guilty to making indecent images of children, faced the court with the gravity of his actions laid bare. The judge, John Wait, addressed him directly, emphasizing the lasting impact of such images. “All of these images involve child abuse. These children will know for the rest of their lives they have been the subject of this sort of photograph – they are all over the internet. It is nothing short of torture. By looking at these images, you are encouraging the men who abuse these children. They do it for money,” the judge stated.

Judge Wait also noted the emotional state of Whitlock, remarking, “I can see you are upset now,” before sentencing him to a three-year community order. As part of his punishment, Whitlock was also mandated to participate in a sex offender rehabilitation program and was ordered to register as a sex offender with the police for the next five years.

Defense attorney Anthony Potter acknowledged Whitlock’s acknowledgment of his issues, stating, “He has accepted the difficulty he has.” The case underscores the ongoing concern over online child exploitation and the importance of legal measures to address such heinous crimes.