VINCENT STUBBS FROM SCUNTHORPE CAUGHT WITH INDECENT CHILD IMAGES IN HORRIFIC DISCOVERY

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Scunthorpe, Vincent Stubbs, a 50-year-old resident of Moorwell Road, was found to be in possession of indecent images depicting children as young as two years old. The incident came to light after police executed a search warrant at his home on November 7, 2012, leading to a detailed investigation and subsequent court proceedings.

During the search, law enforcement officials seized a computer from Stubbs's residence, which was later sent for forensic analysis. The examination uncovered a troubling collection of images stored across two separate drives. In total, investigators recovered 244 images, with a significant portion classified as the lowest level of severity—168 images categorized as level one. The remaining images were distributed across higher levels, with nine at level two, 33 at level three, and 34 at level four. Notably, none of the images fell into the most severe category, level five.

Prosecutor Craig Lowe provided details about the nature of the images, stating, "The individuals depicted in the level four images were approximately two years old, while the images at other levels involved children up to the ages of eight or nine." This revelation underscores the disturbing nature of the material found in Stubbs's possession.

During the court hearing at Grimsby Crown Court, Stubbs pleaded guilty to seven counts of possessing indecent images of children and one count of possessing extreme pornographic images. His defense attorney, Mark Watterson, emphasized Stubbs's previously clean record and good character, asserting that he had no prior convictions and was not considered a danger to the public.

Judge Paul Watson, presiding over the case, took into account a pre-sentence report that provided insight into Stubbs's background. The judge also acknowledged an impressive letter of character submitted on Stubbs's behalf, which contributed positively to the assessment. Additionally, a psychiatric report was reviewed to better understand Stubbs's mental state.

In delivering his sentence, Judge Watson expressed the view that long-term public protection would be best served through a comprehensive supervision order. As a result, Stubbs was sentenced to a three-year community order, which includes a three-year supervision requirement. Furthermore, he will be registered as a sex offender for five years and was issued a five-year sexual offences prevention order, reflecting the seriousness of the offenses and the need for ongoing monitoring and safeguarding.