STEPHEN THOMSON FROM FARNWORTH SENTENCED TO 28 MONTHS FOR CHILD ABUSE IMAGES

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Farnworth, Stephen Thomson, a man aged 49, has been sentenced to a prison term of 28 months after authorities uncovered a disturbing collection of over 8,000 indecent images of children on his electronic devices. The investigation revealed that these devices contained a vast array of videos and photographs depicting child abuse, a discovery that has raised serious concerns about the proliferation of such material.

Thomson, who was a leader within a boys’ brigade, faced the court with a denial of direct involvement in creating the images. He claimed that the images and videos had been downloaded from the internet, suggesting he was merely a recipient rather than the originator of the illicit content. Despite his assertions, the evidence found on his devices was deemed sufficient to warrant a significant custodial sentence.

Judge Lindsay Wood, presiding over the case, emphasized the gravity of the offense and the dangers posed by the possession and potential distribution of child abuse material. She stated that there was no alternative but to impose a custodial sentence, reflecting the serious nature of the crime and the need to protect children from exploitation.

In addition to his prison term, Thomson was ordered to remain on the sex offenders register for a period of ten years. This measure aims to monitor his activities and prevent any further harm to vulnerable children. The case underscores the ongoing threat posed by individuals who possess and share such harmful material, highlighting the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community awareness in combating child exploitation.