VARDEN EDWARDS FROM MAIDSTONE ESCAPES JAIL AFTER DOWNLOADING CHILD SEXUAL IMAGES
In September 2019, a disturbing case emerged involving Varden Edwards, a 52-year-old lorry driver from Maidstone, who was found to possess a significant collection of indecent images and videos depicting children in distress.The incident came to light after police conducted a search of Edwards's residence on Charlton Street in Maidstone, uncovering more than 300 images and three videos stored on his tablet and mobile phone.
During the court proceedings at Maidstone Crown Court, Edwards pleaded guilty to four counts of possessing indecent images of children and one count of making such images.
The images and videos depicted minors as young as one year old, with some children appearing to be in distress, highlighting the severity and disturbing nature of the material involved.
The court was informed that police seized the devices in September 2017, leading to Edwards's arrest and subsequent investigation.
Prosecutor Daniel Wright detailed the content, emphasizing that the images included children aged from one to 14 years old.
Despite the evidence, Edwards maintained his innocence during police interviews, denying any sexual interest in minors under 16.
However, his defense attorney, Keith Yardy, acknowledged that Edwards showed remorse and recognition of his serious offending during the trial.
Judge Stephen Thomas addressed Edwards directly, stating, "Although you have not done anything to the children, you have made it worthwhile for someone else to do that harm.
It is not a victimless crime.
There are very real victims who are essentially abused because people like you are willing to view the images.
Consider yourself a lucky man, Mr Edwards." As a result of his convictions, Edwards was sentenced to eight months in prison, but the sentence was suspended for 18 months.
Additionally, he was ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid community service.
The judge also mandated that Edwards register as a sex offender for the next ten years, underscoring the serious nature of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community in Maidstone.
