ROY INGHAM FROM BLACKBURN JAILED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENSES IN BOLTON ROAD

In a significant case that highlights ongoing concerns about child exploitation and online abuse, Roy Ingham, a resident of Blackburn, has been sentenced to 16 months in prison after being found guilty of possessing indecent images of children. The incident unfolded when police officers executed a search warrant at his accommodation, a bed and breakfast located on Bolton Road in Blackburn, during October of the previous year.

During the search, law enforcement officials seized various electronic devices, which were subsequently subjected to detailed forensic analysis by the high-tech crime unit. The examination revealed a disturbing collection of digital material, including 66 indecent images of varying degrees of severity and three video clips depicting inappropriate content. These findings confirmed Ingham’s possession of illegal material, leading to his arrest and subsequent court proceedings.

Roy Ingham, aged 52 at the time, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including 15 counts of making indecent images, one count of possessing an extreme pornographic image, and another of possessing a prohibited image of a child. The prosecution, led by Mr. Stephen Parker at Preston Crown Court, detailed the timeline of events, noting that police executed the warrant on October 19. Despite being detained, Ingham chose to exercise his right to silence during questioning.

It was also revealed during the court hearing that Ingham had a troubling criminal history, which included several convictions related to gross indecency with a child. One of these sentences dates back to April 2004, when he was previously jailed for similar offenses. This history underscores the ongoing risk posed by the individual and the importance of the legal actions taken against him.

Mark Stephenson, representing Ingham, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating, “He knows he is going to spend further time in custody. The question is how long and what will happen to him on his release.” He also highlighted logistical issues, mentioning that the probation trust would not be able to offer Ingham suitable accommodation until early the following year, even in a hostel setting. Despite these challenges, Stephenson assured that Ingham would be managed under strict supervision, including active monitoring on his license and involvement in multi-agency protection procedures.

Judge Norman Wright addressed the court and the defendant directly, emphasizing the seriousness of the offenses. “It helps to feed the market to produce such images,” the judge stated. “That means children are sexually abused in a way that is vividly portrayed for the sexual gratification of people such as yourself around the world.”

As part of his sentence, Ingham will be placed on the sex offenders register for a period of ten years. He is also prohibited from working with children and will be subject to an indefinite sexual offences prevention order, further restricting his activities and ensuring ongoing oversight to prevent future offenses.