STEPHEN COBBY SENTENCED IN EASTBOURNE FOR CHILD INDECENCY IMAGES CRIME

In a significant case that has shocked the local community, Stephen Cobby, a 34-year-old resident of Rotherfield Avenue, Eastbourne, was convicted and sentenced for possessing and distributing indecent images of minors. The proceedings took place at Hove Crown Court on Friday, April 5, where Cobby appeared to face justice for his disturbing actions.

During the court session, Cobby pleaded guilty to a total of 20 criminal charges related to the exploitation of minors. These included 16 counts of taking indecent images, three counts of creating such images, and one count of distributing them. The offences spanned a period from 2007 to 2011 and involved a teenage girl as the primary victim. Additionally, six of the charges of taking indecent images and all three of the making charges involved a teenage boy, indicating a pattern of predatory behavior.

As part of his sentencing, Cobby was handed a custodial term of four years. The court also imposed an indefinite Sexual Offence Prevention Order (SOPO) for a duration of ten years, which will severely restrict his access to children and computers, aiming to prevent any further harm. Furthermore, Cobby is mandated to register as a sex offender for life upon his release from prison, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

In addition to the prison sentence and restrictions, the court ordered the forfeiture and destruction of all seized digital devices and images related to the case, aiming to eliminate any remaining material that could be circulated or used for further exploitation.

Detective Constable Rebecca Dixon commented on the case, emphasizing the complexity and length of the investigation. She described Cobby as an amateur photographer who exploited a young girl by persuading her to model for his own sexual gratification and to circulate the images to others. Dixon issued a warning to families, especially those with young girls considering a career in modeling. She advised parents to thoroughly check the credentials of photographers and to never allow their children to attend such appointments alone. Instead, she recommended accompanying their children or notifying a trusted adult to ensure their safety.

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable minors from predators operating under the guise of legitimate professions. The community remains vigilant, and authorities continue to pursue justice for victims of such heinous crimes.