STEPHEN LEYDEN FROM BOREHAMWOOD FACES SEX OFFENDERS PROGRAM AFTER DISCOVERY OF 36,000 CHILD INDECENT IMAGES

In June 2013, authorities executed a search warrant at the residence of Stephen Leyden, a man residing in Borehamwood, uncovering a disturbing collection of over 36,000 indecent images of children stored on his computer. The police had prior suspicions that Leyden had been accessing such illicit material, which prompted the warrant and subsequent investigation.

When detectives arrived at Leyden's home on Crown Road, Borehamwood, they confronted him directly about the images. Faced with their questions, Leyden did not deny his involvement; instead, he admitted, "Yes, I have," confirming that he possessed the illegal content. This confession was a significant development in the case, leading to further legal proceedings.

Following his arrest, Leyden, aged 53, appeared before St Albans Crown Court to face charges related to the possession of indecent images of children. During the court hearing, it was revealed that the majority of the images depicted young girls aged between eight and twelve years old. The court was informed that Leyden had accumulated this extensive collection over several years, indicating a long-standing and troubling pattern of behavior.

The case also highlighted that Leyden had taken some steps to address his issues while awaiting sentencing. Notably, he had reduced his alcohol consumption, which was considered a positive sign of his attempt to manage his problems. Despite this, the court recognized the severity of his actions and the potential risk posed to the community.

Judge Steven Warner, presiding over the case, sentenced Leyden to a three-year community order, which includes supervision and mandatory attendance at a sex offenders treatment programme. Additionally, Leyden was placed under a sexual offences prevention programme for an indefinite period, and his name will remain on the sex offenders register for the next five years. As part of the court's order, Leyden was also required to pay costs amounting to £85 and a statutory surcharge of £60.

Furthermore, the court ordered that Leyden's computer be confiscated and destroyed to prevent any further misuse or distribution of the illegal images. The case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the possession and distribution of child exploitation material, and the serious consequences faced by those found guilty of such offenses.