TIMOTHY MAHER FROM WIDNES ESCAPES JAIL AFTER BEING FOUND WITH OVER 29,000 CHILD INDECENT IMAGES

In a case that has shocked the local community of Widnes, Timothy Maher, a 27-year-old man from Cross Gates in Widnes, was found to possess an alarming collection of indecent images of children. The images, which included photographs and videos of minors as young as four years old, totaled more than 29,000 and were discovered on his electronic devices during a police investigation.

Maher was initially arrested and released on bail after authorities uncovered the extensive collection of illicit material on his computer. Further investigations revealed that he also had an additional 76 images stored on his mobile phone, raising serious concerns about his ongoing possession of such material. The police and prosecutors detailed that Maher had downloaded these images over a period spanning from August 2010 to February 2013, indicating a prolonged period of illicit activity.

During the hearing at Warrington Crown Court, Neil Gunn, representing Maher, described the situation as an 'addiction,' attempting to contextualize the severity of the offense. Gunn emphasized that Maher did not acquire the images after his last court appearance; rather, they were already present on his phone at that time. The defense acknowledged that Maher fully recognizes the abhorrent nature of accessing such material and has been candid with authorities about his actions.

Gunn stated, “He did not download the images following his last court appearance, they were already on his phone and he accepts accessing them is abhorrent. He has been candid throughout and told officers the images were for his own sexual gratification and recognizes he has a difficulty.” The defense also highlighted Maher’s remorse, describing him as 'genuinely remorseful' for his actions.

Despite these explanations, Judge Nicholas Woodward described Maher’s conduct as 'brazen,' particularly noting that he continued to possess images on his phone while legal proceedings were ongoing. The judge expressed skepticism about the sincerity of Maher’s remorse, questioning whether it stemmed from genuine regret or concern for his family and personal situation. Judge Woodward remarked, “I’m not convinced about the motivation for your remorse, if it’s because of your situation and concern for yourself and family or a more deeper understanding that what you have been doing is very wrong.”

In light of the evidence and circumstances, Judge Woodward sentenced Maher to 16 months in prison, but the sentence was suspended for two years. Additionally, Maher was ordered to participate in the Northumbria sex offenders programme, a measure aimed at reducing the risk of reoffending and ensuring he receives appropriate psychological support. The case underscores the ongoing concerns about the possession and distribution of child exploitation material, and the court’s decision reflects the complex balance between punishment and rehabilitation.