STEPHEN THOMPSON FROM THORNABY SENTENCED FOR CHILD INDECENCY IMAGES IN STOCKTON

A 61-year-old man from Stockton, identified as Stephen Thompson, has been handed a prison sentence after being found guilty of possessing and viewing a significant collection of indecent images of children. The investigation revealed that Thompson had accumulated these illicit images over a span of 15 years, during which he downloaded and stored over one million files.

Authorities uncovered thousands of extreme and illegal images on his electronic devices, highlighting the severity of his actions. The court proceedings acknowledged Thompson's long-standing addiction to such material, which played a role in his criminal behavior. Recognizing the complex nature of his case, the judge emphasized the importance of addressing his underlying issues through treatment.

As part of the sentencing, Thompson was not only sentenced to a period of imprisonment but also ordered to undergo long-term supervision and participate in specialized treatment programs aimed at tackling his addiction. The court's decision reflects a balanced approach, aiming to protect the public while providing an opportunity for rehabilitation for the offender.